"Residents must have further consultation" say Lib Dems

The decision to go ahead two Residents Parking Schemes in Clifton and Kingsdown was discussed at a "Call-In" meeting in the Council House last night. Over 100 statements were considered from the public, some arguing strongly against the pilots and some arguing strongly in favour. The main concerns of those arguing against the pilots were flawed consultation, effect on neighbouring areas and whether this was a true pilot.

Cllr Dennis Brown (Henleaze Ward) made three recommendations on behalf of the Call In committee which were formally agreed by Cllr Mark Bradshaw, the Executive Member for Sustainable Development:

"1) The Cabinet must formally specify that there will be a proper consultation on the two revised pilot schemes in the two pilot areas and adjacent streets before proceeding. Only if a majority within the relevant pilot areas are in favour should the scheme proceed. Residents, community groups, businesses and local ward councillors must be closely involved to ensure meaningful consultation.

"2) We propose that the Cabinet must formally confirm that these are truly pilot schemes, with formal reviews of effectiveness and acceptability at 6 months and 2 years.

"3) We further propose that once the consultation is completed and a fully costed and detailed plan is available, together with resources to mitigate effects on adjacent areas, that this is the subject a further Cabinet decision prior to implementation."

Cllr Dr Jon Rogers (Ashley), Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Transport says:

"These recommendations are in line with the Liberal Democrat position that we work closely with our communities. We support the introduction of Residents' Parking schemes into areas where the majority of residents have indicated that they are in favour of such schemes. Conversely we would not support the imposition of schemes into areas where the majority is not supportive. We will continue to scrutinise and evaluate the effect of these two pilots."