Controversial plans to charge motorists for parking in Ryde’s Union Street are back on the table – just 7 months after similar proposals were scrapped following fierce opposition from businesses and residents.
The shocking new charges are planned for not only Union Street in Ryde, but also Sandown’s High Street, Regent Street in Shanklin and Fort Victoria Car Park in Yarmouth, according to a new report.
For Union Street, the proposals mark the latest chapter in a long-running battle over parking on one of Ryde’s main shopping streets.
In February this year, businesses told Island Echo they feared charging for Union Street’s 82 parking bays would drive shoppers away from the town centre, with one trader warning the move could contribute to the ‘death of Union Street’.
Those plans were subsequently removed from the council’s budget later that month after opposition to the wider parking proposals grew across the Isle of Wight. A petition launched against the measures attracted more than 4,000 signatures.
Similar proposals sparked a backlash in 2018, when a petition opposing paid parking in Ryde town centre attracted 3,850 signatures and councillors unanimously agreed to reconsider the plans, which were dropped in February 2019.
Now, 7 years later, the prospect of charging motorists to park on Union Street has returned once again.
Ventnor’s High Street and St James’ Street, Crocker Street, Union Street, Terrace Road and St John’s Place in Newport are also included in the fresh proposals.
In addition, charges are on the table for sites such as the Wheelers Bay and Eastcliff car parks in Ventnor, St Martin’s Road car park in Wroxall, and Warnes Lane car park in Brighstone – all currently offering free parking.
Other areas listed include Godshill car park, Bouldnor Viewpoint car park in Yarmouth, St Helens Green car park, Gurnard seafront and Hope Road in Shanklin.
The report says it is likely that ‘vocal arguments’ and ’emotive campaigns’ will be raised against the proposals.
It says:
“St Helens Parish Council might argue that charging for parking at St Helens Green Car Park is unlawful and Shalfleet Parish Council will expect significant works to be undertaken to tackle vegetation which shrouds the view at present.
“Fort Victoria concession holders will most likely object strenuously.”
The proposed charges, which are subject to consultation, will be considered as part of a host of savings plans coming before the economy, regeneration, transport and infrastructure committee (ERTIC) next Tuesday (6th October).
