Ian Ross launched a car parking charges campaign and petition at the beginning of July with the help of Vernon Coaker, Minister of State for Schools and Learners.
The then Liberal Democrat run Council signed a 10 year agreement with NCP Ltd in 2004 to manage the Council’s Off Street Car Parks, including the 4 multi-storey car parks. Thanks to the Lib-Dems the agreement can not be ended prior to the contract expiring in 2014. The terms of the agreement allow NCP Ltd to control charges for the car parks.
Many shoppers will know there is a minimum £2.90 charge for 2 hours parking. Not surprisingly the number of people visiting the town centre in April and May dropped by 13% compared to last year, compared to a nationwide fall of just 0.1%.
Following the successful car parking campaign petition signed by over 2000 people, Worthing Borough Council instructed Officers to meet NCP to see if a new tariff structure can be introduced for a 12 month trial. The Council would have to meet the difference of £152,500 from council reserves.
Ian Ross said:
“I am delighted my parking charges petition and campaign made a difference. NCP has finally seen sense has now lowered their charges. However we all need to remember that we are all paying the price thanks to the former Liberal-Democrat Council signing a sloppy contract.”
“However I am very disappointed that West Sussex County Council is considering raising the parking charges for on-street parking by 50%. It is like taking one step forward and two steps back. I hope West Sussex County Council will make the right decision rather than putting the final nail in the coffin for local traders.”
Watch the parking campaign video
