The proposed expansion to Wanstead’s permit parking scheme means residents will be able to park more easily, says Councillor Jo Blackman, who encourages participation in the consultation
My election in 2018 took place against a backdrop of angry protests against council plans for parking permits in and around the High Street. Those opposing warned of the death of the High Street and made vocal protests at public meetings and online. So, what’s happened since?
Parking controls were introduced on the High Street, bringing it in line with other town centres in the borough. This meant more availability of parking for visitors and customers, with a higher turnover of parking proving valuable for our thriving High Street, no doubt also helped by the council’s one-hour free parking. Parking controls were also introduced on nearby streets where they were backed by residents, which means they are able to park more easily. And we’ve had various requests since from residents for parking controls on their streets, which has seen an expansion of the permit zones to other areas in Wanstead where supported in council consultations. It may be no surprise residents have backed an extension of parking controls as we are seeing increased pressure on parking due to neighbouring boroughs introducing restrictions (including borough-wide controls in Newham). This has meant more long-term parking of vehicles from those boroughs in our area.
Wanstead is a fantastic place to visit, and fortunately, it is also well served by public transport – buses, the Tube and improving cycle links too, as well as car parks on Grove Park and at the library, though these may be less attractive options if we offer plenty of free parking on nearby residential roads. Streets closer to stations without parking restrictions are also impacted by people coming into our ward to park and take the Tube into town.
The council is aiming to keep costs down; the first permit for residents is just £22.50, one of the lowest prices in London. We will soon be updating our permit system to ensure a smoother experience for those applying.
Government rules mean any revenue generated by parking schemes can only be spent on transport improvements, with the bulk of our parking revenue going to road safety schemes and the Freedom Pass and Zip Oyster schemes, which the council subsidises via TfL.
The council is currently consulting on parking controls for Grove Park, The Avenue and Grosvenor Road after residents raised concerns about parking obstructing their driveways and the long-term parking of commercial vehicles. We look forward to seeing the outcome of the consultation and will continue to work with residents to address their parking concerns.
The Wanstead permit parking consultation is open until 18 August. Visit wnstd.com/parking24
Jo Blackman is a Wanstead resident and Labour councillor for Wanstead Village.
