Decision making for parking projects

We recognise that parking controls will often encourage diverse opinion and we will consult extensively before introducing any new controlled parking zones (CPZs). 

At the very minimum we must carry out statutory consultation which is defined in national legislation, known as the traffic orders regulations.

However, prior to a CPZ traffic order we will carry out informal consultation with those directly affected, so that we clearly understand all the views in the community.

We will usually follow a two stage consultation process when deciding whether or not to implement a CPZ, outlined below. Occasionally, where boundaries are already defined eg by budget constraints, physical or democratic boundaries, we will progress straight to second stage consultation however this does not remove the necessity to seek approval to implement the CPZ.

At the very outset we will discuss with your community council the method of consultation and the area that will be covered.

First stage (in principal) CPZ consultation

This stage is to establish where parking problems are occurring and at what times it takes place.

A questionnaire is then sent out to every property within the area asking for opinions on the principal of a CPZ and whether or not they experience parking problems. We will also ask our key stakeholders for their comments too.

We will also carry out parking occupancy and duration surveys to analyse who is parking in the area and for how long.

The consultation replies and parking data will be used to make a decision whether or not to introduce a CPZ in the area.

The final decision will be taken by the cabinet member for environment, transport and recycling but the draft report is made public and discussed with the community council before the decision date. This decision is subject to further 2nd stage detailed design consultation, see below.

Second stage (detailed design) CPZ consultation

Once a CPZ has been approved in principal, we will want your views on how the CPZ should operate. 

During this stage we will consult again on the detail of the zone. For example, we will ask your views on the type and position of parking bays, the hours and days that the CPZ should operate and other detailed parking issues.

The layout will be discussed with the community council before a decision is taken on the layout.

Experimental (third stage) and periodic (fourth stage) CPZ reviews

New CPZs are usually introduced under experimental powers so that everyone can have opportunity to see how they work in practice.

Experimental procedures also allows us to review the zone soon after introduction and make changes where necessary.

We recognise that parking needs change over time and therefore we will also make changes to existing zones on a periodic basis.