Purpose

To
seek approval for funding to advance the development of residents'
parking scheme(s) in Stowmarket.

Content

It was RESOLVED:
-
 

1.1         
That, Cabinet agreed to progress to the design phase of a
Residents Parking Zone, as outlined in sections 4.11 and 4.12 of
this report.
 

1.2         
That, Cabinet approved expenditure of £25,646 from the
Thriving Communities earmarked reserve, to fund the design phase of
the Residents Parking Zone.
 

1.3         
That, Cabinet agreed the Director of Operations and Climate
Change, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Thriving
Communities will, at a future date, present the outcomes of the
public consultation and design phase.
 
REASON FOR
DECISION
 
Investing in the design phase of a Residents
Parking Zone, demonstrates the council’s commitment to
finding a viable parking solution that meets the needs of its
residents and communities in this area.
 
This initial funding will allow for the
development of a detailed plan, which is essential for
understanding the schemes feasibility, costs, and potential
impacts. Consultation with residents on the plan will determine if
there is local support from the streets within the proposed RPZ on
the scheme detail. If majority support is in place then a further
capital request for funding can be made to Cabinet. Ultimately,
this scheme design step is crucial for making informed decisions
and ensuring that any final scheme effectively meets the needs of
Stowmarket residents and ties in with the overall review of parking
in Stowmarket.
 
Alternative Options
Considered and Rejected:
 
Option 1 – progress no further in
creating a Residents Parking Zone. This option is not considered
viable, given the growing parking challenges faced by residents and
the need to enhance road safety in Stowmarket. There would also be
a reputational risk to the council in not addressing the concerns
of residents.
 
Any Declarations of Interests Declared:
Councillor Stringer declared an interest as a Director for the John
Peel Centre.
Any Dispensation Granted: None