Parking changes in Ellesmere Port

A RESIDENTS’ parking scheme is being rolled out through Ellesmere Port centre from next month.

The scheme was developed after town centre residents complained that shoppers, visitors and people working nearby were taking the parking spots outside their homes. 

The scheme was due to be introduced in January this year, but was reworked to take on board residents’ concerns. The main points are:

• Everyone who lives permanently in the affected areas will be able to apply for a permit for every vehicle used.
• All householders in the zones can apply for three non-vehicle specific permits, which can be used by visitors, people working at their homes, carers, family and friends.
• Additional non-vehicle specific permits will be provided to doctors, district nurses, professional carers, social services and church ministers.
• All homes can apply for 50 scratch card visitor permits each year to cater for family gatherings.
• Businesses in the zones will be eligible for five non-vehicle specific permits.
• All permits are free of charge and will stay free as long as the scheme runs.

Residents’ parking goes live in Central zone on 6 November, in Fields on 20 November and in Vale on 4 December. The council is now writing to people living in the affected areas telling them how to apply for permits and will be organising roadshows in the Civic Hall this month.

Property and Support Unit Manager Jane Williamson said: “The residents’ parking zones will free up parking for residents within the zone and improve security, as the area will be patrolled by council patrol officers.”

The scheme in the Central zone will be in operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week and in Vale Road and Fields zones six days a week from 8am to 6.30pm.

* The Westminster long stay car park opened this week, providing additional parking for visitors to the town centre. The charges are 50p for two hours and £1 for all day.

ENDS

Press release issued: October 3, 2006