This February Redbridge Council are proposing a new parking scheme for Wanstead Zone A (the area stretching from Lakeside, to Wanstead Sports Centre, to Blake Hall Road).
The introduction of pay and display parking in Wanstead High Street will combat the difficulty many shoppers face between 11am and 5pm when the high street is completely full. 50% of the spaces on the high street are occupied by motorists who park there for more than three hours. The pay and display scheme will help shoppers find spaces closer to the shops.
In addition, residential roads see a substantial amount of non-residential parking. Shoppers visiting Westfield and commuters going into London even take advantage of the free on-street parking. This negatively affects our High Street’s businesses.
Opinions vary on this 93k plan vary but the greatest ire seems to be reserved for the council’s refusal to consult with residents – with some campaigners saying this is against the law. Previous parking proposals were widely discussed before being implemented, but Redbridge is planning to use a loophole for “experiments” to avoid consultation obligations. Overton Drive denizen are concerned that this zoning arrangement for resident or business parking permits are just unlawful money-making schemes.
Others argue that it is futile to quibble over a couple quid for parking on the High Street, however a childminder worries it will damage her business as parents might get a ticket for dropping their children off and that she may lose customers.
This trial will allow the Council to address current parking issues, whilst letting everyone experience the changes and give feedback.
By Angela Okafor
