Concerns over parking meter plans for city centre

Concerns have been raised over plans to introduce parking meters and a new on-street parking system to "help manage parking and traffic movement" in a city.

The proposal by Cornwall Council for Truro has been supported by Truro's Business Improvement District - and some residents fear the changes would push more people to park in residential areas.

City councillors also raised concerns, including possible damage to Truro's historic granite setts, some of which would have to be cut or removed for the equipment.

Councillor Dan Rogerson, portfolio holder for transport, said the plans aimed to "protect the current free parking" so businesses were not impacted. A public consultation ends on Friday.

"The changes will encourage more turnover of spaces, which will help create more options for drivers looking to visit," Rogerson said.

The new on-street parking management system would be introduced at a number of locations, which are currently subject to free, limited-waiting parking restrictions.

Under the proposals, the existing free parking periods would be retained, but drivers would be required to obtain a parking session when they park.

Drivers would also be able to extend their stay by paying for additional parking time, up to the maximum stay permitted at that location. There would be no charge for the initial free parking period.

Truro BID manager, Alun Jones, stressed existing free parking time limits would continue.

"There appears to be misunderstanding that the proposal suggests the removal of the current free time limits on the streets," he said. "This is not the case.

"Currently, an unhelpful proportion of these spaces are occupied over the authorised time limits in certain streets for varying durations, I would suggest daily, across the city."

Resident Paul Caruana, who runs a Facebook page dedicated to the city, said it would cause "irreparable damage" to granite pavements once meters were installed.

Caruana said paid-for additional parking time would "deny casual shoppers the opportunity to pop into a local shop".

Town clerk David Rodda completed the consultation form for each area on behalf of the city council, citing a number of concerns including the potential negative impact on businesses, residents, traffic flow, heritage impact and recommending the removal of proposed Sunday charges.

The parking meters would be cashless, which has led to concerns that those without smartphones won't be able to park.

The proposals would also introduce Sunday operation at the town-centre locations currently restricted from Monday to Saturday only.

Castle Street, Little Castle Street, River Street, Kenwyn Street, Lemon Street and Tabernacle Street would therefore operate Monday to Sunday, 08:00 to 18:00.

The proposed parking restrictions at Chapel Hill, Hendra Road, St George's Road and Station Road would remain Monday to Saturday, 08:00 to 18:00. Blue Badge holders would be exempt from the proposed parking charges and restrictions.

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