Permit cost halved

The price of a residents’ parking scheme in Southwell has been halved because of a lack of interest.

The scheme for permit parking for those living on King Street was introduced in September.

Residents were offered permits to use King Street carpark for £10 a week, but many felt the cost was too high.

Newark and Sherwood District Council has now cut the cost to £5.

Before the council introduced charges, residents could use the carpark for free.

After the charges were introduced many residents found other places in the town to park or used the carpark only overnight when charges did not apply.

The district council’s parking and markets manager, Mr Craig Black, said: “The price of the residents’ scheme has been reduced from £10 per week to £5 per week, as take up has been poor so far.

“We are providing the off-street parking to help residents in that area and we hope the reduction in price makes it more attractive to them.”

The district council’s cabinet went against officers’ recommendation for a £5 weekly charge and set the rate at £10.

A King Street resident, Mr Tony Byrne, felt the price was still too high, despite being halved.

He said: “It is cheaper not to use it. You might have to walk further to get to your car but you are going to save yourself £5 a week.

“It is a step in the right direction but they just need to bring it down by more.”