Parking a Persistent Problem

Parking Across the Borough

Those who attended the Last Elmbridge Local Committee meeting could be forgiven for thinking that it was all a little too little too late. Certainly there was much discussion about the way forward in terms of parking restrictions in Elmbridge, and in particular pay and display schemes. The Committee passed a resolution proposed by County Councillor Nigel Cooper (Molesey Residents Assoc.) and seconded by me, to have a 30 minute free parking period in all bays.

Present at the meeting was County Councillor Ian Lake, the cabinet member at Surrey, responsible for highways, and therefore parking. He indicated such a swathing piece of feedback was not likely to meet with the approval of the Surrey cabinet. Indeed it has not, and the parking charges will come into force without the caveat of the 30minute free period.

Long Ditton Parking

It was against that kind of backdrop that we received the good news for Long Ditton. For a number of years we have all known of the hazards associated with the over-parking in Windmill Lane. After significant pressure brought to bear by Cllr David Archer, and myself as well as County Councillor Peter Hickman, we now have a scheme that will hopefully ensure the area of Windmill Lane is safer for pedestrians and motorists alike. The scheme will be a mixture of yellow lines and double yellow lines as well as resident's parking bays and other parking restrictions. Following consultation with residents this will include Ditton Reach, parts of Alston Close, Howard Street, and Winters Road. The scheme will not include Prospect Road, after the majority of residents rejected proposals for on-street restrictions.

Speed Bumps

There have been mentions of Speed bumps, but in line with the 2008 survey we conducted, we made sure that these were not brought in.

The Result

Of course we all know you will never please all the people all the time, and certainly I have heard from one or two people who regard the restrictions with disappointment and enmity. However, the majority view has prevailed, as indeed it should in any Democracy. When doing nothing is not an option so far as safety was concerned, I am delighted we have done something to bring the problems to the attention of Surrey CC and ensure our community is made safer.

Get In Touch

I am always interested to know more about the problems you have had regarding parking. Please contact me on tgrey@elmbridge.gov.uk if I can assist.