The Executive Member for Active Travel, Transport and Highways, Councillor Adrian Betteridge, was scheduled to consider proposed amendments to the Wokingham Borough Council (Prohibition and Restriction of Stopping, Waiting, Loading and Parking Places) (Consolidation) Order 2023. This meeting was to review the outcomes of a statutory consultation regarding these proposed changes.

Wokingham Borough Council (Prohibition and Restriction of Stopping, Waiting, Loading and Parking Places) (Consolidation) Order 2023 (Amendment No.4) Order 2026

The primary item scheduled for discussion was Amendment No. 4 to the Wokingham Borough Council (Prohibition and Restriction of Stopping, Waiting, Loading and Parking Places) (Consolidation) Order 2023. This amendment is part of a broader review of residents' parking schemes, aiming to ensure parking controls across the Borough's Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) are consistent and enforceable, reflecting current travel patterns.

A statutory consultation on these proposed changes took place between 22 January 2026 and 12 February 2026, receiving 177 responses, including 146 objections. Key concerns raised during the consultation period included extended hours of restriction, access to community facilities, the replacement of white access markings with double yellow lines, permit pricing and eligibility, and worries about parking displacement and road safety.

Officers reviewed these representations and provided clarifications on the rationale behind the proposals. The report indicated that individual access-related cases would be assessed, and post-implementation monitoring would inform any necessary adjustments.

Specific issues highlighted in the consultation responses included:

• Extended Hours of Restriction: Many respondents felt that extended evening and weekend controls would make it more difficult for family, friends, carers, and tradespeople to visit.
• Access to Community Facilities: Concerns were raised about the impact on access to facilities such as the Wokingham Men's Shed and Ormonde Road Allotments, particularly for older residents or those with limited mobility. In response to these concerns, officers recommended that proposals relating to the area south of property number one, Ormonde Road, be removed from the Traffic Regulation Order.
• Replacement of White Access Markings with Double Yellow Lines: Objections were received regarding the proposal to replace existing white access protection markings with double yellow lines, with residents arguing that this would remove informal parking spaces and worsen capacity issues. The report noted that while white markings are advisory, double yellow lines are legally enforceable to ensure clear access points.
• Permit Pricing and Eligibility: Objections focused on potential financial impacts of increased permit costs and changes to eligibility criteria, particularly for lower-income households, carers, young drivers, and older residents. The report stated that permit charges are intended to be cost-neutral and that eligibility rules prioritise kerbside space for households without off-street parking.
• Displacement and Road Safety: Concerns were raised that tighter restrictions in some areas could lead to increased congestion and safety risks on narrow streets, school routes, and junctions. The scheme was designed to reduce displacement by applying consistent restrictions across CPZs, with safety considered in bay locations.
• Visitor Permits: The report mentioned that the virtual visitor permit system would be reviewed in light of feedback, particularly concerning households with caring responsibilities.

The report concluded that the amendment is necessary to achieve a consistent and enforceable parking management approach across CPZs. The recommendation was for the Executive Member to approve the sealing and implementation of the Traffic Regulation Order with the specified changes, and to approve the notification of those who submitted comments.

The report also detailed the financial implications, estimating implementation costs of £30,000 in the current financial year, with projected savings of £33,500 in the next financial year from estimated additional income from visitor permits and pricing changes. An Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) was completed, identifying a low impact overall, with potential low negative impacts on age and socio-economic disadvantage due to changes in permit pricing, and a positive impact for disabled badge holders.

The proposed changes are part of Wokingham Borough Council's wider commitment to its mission of ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive, with specific alignment to its FAIR, GREEN, SAFE, and CONNECTED strategic outcomes. The proposal aims to ensure equitable access to opportunities and services, contribute to a sustainable environment, enhance safety, and foster strong communities through improved accessibility and services.

The report also referenced the council's previous statements and manifesto pledges regarding the need for a consistent and fair approach to parking management across the borough. The proposed changes aim to simplify and standardise the resident parking scheme, prioritise households with no off-street parking, and align with best practices from other local authorities.

The meeting was for consideration by Councillor Adrian Betteridge, Executive Member for Active Travel, Highways and Transport. Edward Day was listed as an officer present.