East Herts Council has approved a series of changes to address parking management in the district, aiming to eliminate what has been described as a ‘Wild West’ environment in its car parks. During a meeting on January 13, 2024, the council’s executive voted to implement modifications that include increasing off-street parking charges, standardising operating hours, and introducing restrictions for Blue Badge holders.
The changes, which will take effect in various locations, include extending chargeable hours at the Grange Paddocks car parks B and C in Bishop’s Stortford. Additionally, weekend charges will be introduced at Bell Street in Sawbridgeworth and Bowling Green Lane in Buntingford. In Hertford, parking will be limited to three hours at the Gascoyne Way Level A and the Library Car Park in Ware.
Cllr Tim Hoskin, the executive member for environmental sustainability, expressed confidence that these changes would lead to a consistent charging structure across the district. He noted, “These changes will help us to better manage demand in our busiest locations.” Cllr Hoskin further emphasised that the council aims to address its funding gap and navigate future financial challenges, ensuring the continued delivery of local services amid increasing budget pressures.
During a consultation held in October 2023, the council received 636 responses regarding the proposed changes. While most adjustments will be implemented as planned, some modifications were made based on feedback. For instance, the weekday tariffs at rural car parks in Sawbridgeworth, Buntingford, and Stanstead Abbotts will not increase in line with inflation. A new flat-rate Sunday parking charge will now be set at £1.50, down from the proposed £2.10.
Inflationary price increases will also affect other car parks, with the one-hour tariff at Jackson Square in Bishop’s Stortford rising from £1.20 to £1.25, and the five-hour tariff at Old London Road in Hertford increasing from £6 to $6.20. Cllr Hoskin highlighted that the council aims to ensure a fair contribution from users towards the ongoing maintenance and management of parking facilities, including those currently provided free of charge, such as weekends.
In a notable concession for Blue Badge holders, the council announced that these individuals will be allowed to remain parked beyond the new three-hour limit without charge, although they will have to pay the standard tariff if they exceed the time limit. Payment will be facilitated through a mobile app, streamlining the process for users. Cllr Hoskin stated that the changes to Blue Badge parking are designed to improve the turnover and availability of accessible spaces.
With these strategic adjustments, East Herts Council aims to create a more organised parking environment that not only meets the needs of residents and visitors but also addresses financial sustainability within the region.
