Community Voices Opposition to Proposed Parking Zone in Cheltenham

Hundreds of individuals are advocating for the cancellation of proposed parking limitations within a residential district. Increasing resistance has emerged against Gloucestershire County Council’s plans to implement a new residential parking program in Cheltenham, designated as Zone 16. This scheme would necessitate residents utilizing specific parking bays, while visitors would be restricted to a maximum stay of four hours. Gloucestershire County Council was contacted for a statement regarding the matter. The establishment of this proposed new zone stems from an ongoing review of the existing and contentious parking permit system, Zone 15, located in the north-eastern part of Cheltenham. Should it be put into effect, Zone 16 would encompass Hewlett Road, extending from Brighton Road to Hales Road, as well as Pittville Court, Pittville Circus Road, and All Saints Road. During non-operational periods, parking on single yellow lines would be permitted where it is safe. Nevertheless, local residents have expressed the view that the overall scheme lacks necessity. Michael Bloxham, an opponent of the proposal, stated: “The current confusion with Zone 15 is due to the poor design, planning and implementation of the signage and scheme. How can reducing parking spaces by over 100 plus spaces improve and benefit the parking opportunities for the residents of Zone 15/16?” An online petition initiated by residents has garnered over 340 supporters, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. The petitioners asserted that the data utilized to rationalize the implementation of the controlled parking zone was defective, having been gathered before and during the Covid lockdown period. Ian Weaving, another resident from the area, recounted encountering numerous elderly individuals who had experienced isolation as a result of the parking scheme, with some reporting a cessation of visits due to the limitations. Mr. Weaving commented: “I helped one elderly lady dig up her hedge so her son could get his car in the front garden, all because she could not use the technology that comes with this scheme. A friend’s mother got a ticket on a Sunday outside her own home because a child was being dropped off. These are just a few examples.” Gloucestershire County Council had previously stated its intention to thoroughly review all input from the public survey, which concluded last month, with the aim of delivering an enhanced scheme beneficial to all residents.