Shropshire Star

Mid Wales parking charges plan could be scrapped - because they'll only make £655

Powys County Council could scrap plans to introduce parking charges - because it would only make £655 a year.

Published

The council was looking to introduce charges in nine car parks but the plans could be shelved because they have "little financial benefit."

In December 2016, the council made a traffic regulation order to implement charges within nine currently free car parks.

At the time it was proposed that some of the car parks would be pay and display while others would be for residents online.

It would include car parks for pay and display at Ridgebourne, Llandrindod Wells, Watergate Street, Llanfair Caereinon, Station Yard, Talgarth, Station Yard, Sennybridge, By-pass, Presteigne

Permit holder car parks would be introduced at Market Street, Knighton, Tremont Road, Llandrindod, Church Place, Llanidloes, Orchard Street, Brecon.

A new report has been made, which says that the decision would have little financial benefit.

In the report, it states: "Based upon the income estimation of £29,406 from the nine car parks and an additional £2,275 from income from Penalty Charge notices, the total predicted income of the changes is £31,681.

"Taking into account the apportioned annual enforcement costs which total £31,026, the net income would amount to only £655.

"This does not take into account any initial capital outlay to procure and install pay and display machines and any necessary signage.

"Given that the net income prediction of implementing the charges amounts to only £655 per year it is not considered appropriate to pursue the planned introduction of the Traffic Order and subsequent charges there on.

"It is therefore proposed not to progress the decision made by Cabinet on the December 20, 2016.

The report has put two options forward, to stick to the original plan which will make an income of just £655, or to scrap the plans.

Under delegated powers, cabinet member for highways Councillor Liam Fitzpatrick could take a decision on November 14.