Purpose

Officer delegated decision to consider consultation feedback on the variations to the parking order and decide whether to make the variation to the Order in whole or in part or abandon the proposal.

Reasons for the decision

The Kilkenny car park is not currently included in the Parking Order and therefore there is no restrictions in place which the Council can enforce.  In imposing restrictions the council has considered how the car park can most effectively be used to benefit the majority of users.  It also considers the impacts the use of the car park may have on neighbouring residents or businesses. 

Comments from the consultation support better management of the car park.  Comments suggesting additional facilities be introduced so that overnight stays could be embraced, were considered.  This has recently been considered elsewhere but the cost to provide and service these facilities, along with increased management meant a significant financial loss would be incurred.  There were also concerns raised regarding potential antisocial behaviour from noise and a fire risk from BBQs.  There have also previously been complaints from some residents regarding overnight camping.  In other car parks where camping is already prohibited it has not resulted in any reported camping on the roadside. 

On balance, adding the car park to the Parking Order with a maximum stay of 6 hours in any 12 hour period and no overnight camping will enable the Council to better manage the site and mitigate any negative impacts on neighbours.  The decision is therefore the Council will proceed with the changes. 

The introduction of these restrictions will be monitored and can be reviewed if it is considered they need to be amended.

Alternative options considered

The alternative options detailed in the report were that the Council could have chosen not to include the car park in the Parking Order and continue to have little or no regulations at the site and rely on ownership rights.