For many years the permit ratios in each zone have been held at a fairly low level. Several years ago we managed to get the ratio of 1:1.8 reduced to 1:1.2 but unfortunately the Council does not appear to have taken into account the amount of other permits issued for use on the same resident parking bays. Amongst these are Resident Visitor permits, Carers, Council vehicles, Window Cleaners, Scaffolders and, of course, Trader permits.

Now, the Council intends to issue unlimited amounts of trader permits at nearly double the price. This is very unfair as it will mean that the low ratio will rise to a much higher level. This, in turn, will mean fewer parking spaces for the resident permit holders. Although the trader permits are supposed to be limited to a 4pm use I can tell you that due to the lack of enforcement, the restricted use is rarely observed. I sympathise with tradesman needing to park close to their work but with unlimited permit issue the situation could become quite serious. I will be investigating the situation in greater depth and discussing it with the Council in the near future.
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