Breckland Council launches consultation amid parking row

Breckland Council launched the consultation on Monday after plans to introduce car park charges in Dereham, Swaffham, Attleborough, Thetford and Watton were revealed.

Many people living in the towns have voiced their outrage, with some calling it "an end to business" in the areas. 

The cabinet recently voted in favour of introducing charges across the district amid increasing budget pressures and struggles to afford the £450,000 yearly upkeep costs.
The Cherry Tree car park in Dereham (Image: Newsquest) The council argues the expenditure is currently covered by all taxpayers regardless of their use of the car park.

However, this was also met with backlash with some locals suggesting they would prefer to have their council tax increased in order to keep parking free.

Last week it was revealed that £90,000 of council money has already been agreed to be spent on the initial steps of developing the scheme, which was first proposed in July.

Councillor Paul Hewett, Breckland Council’s executive member for property has defended the decision arguing that delays talking about alternative options are increasing the costs inflicted.

Councillor Paul Hewett (Image: Gary Donnison) Now inviting the public to offer their thoughts Cllr Hewett said: "We understand that moving towards a new parking system is a significant change.

"Likewise, we also understand how important it is for any process that brings about change to have sufficient time for this to be considered and reviewed, particularly by those who are affected.  

“We have committed throughout to making this process as transparent and accessible as possible.

“The proposals we are putting before our community in this consultation have been considerately designed to keep potential charges as low as possible.

"Through this consultation, we want to hear your views so we can design a system that works for everyone.”