Business parking permits have been axed by the Isle of Wight Council.
There are currently 142 permits issued to businesses which enable staff to park in residents’ parking zones for £46 a year.
They were introduced to benefit local businesses, but have attracted numerous complaints.
Ward: “A huge degree of unfairness”
Speaking at the council cabinet meeting on Thursday (11 October), cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, Cllr Ian Ward, said:
“In some cases, businesses located in the same high street and in very close proximity are considered to be treated very differently.
“Those finding themselves just inside the zone pay £46 a year. While those outside the zone, which could be the shop next door, have to pay £420 a year to park in the long stay car park.
“So there is a huge degree of unfairness there.”
Lack of spaces
Residents have also complained that they cannot find a parking space if there are a large number of businesses in the area.
The scrutiny committee also supported the plans, with members agreeing it was ‘about time’ the permits were removed.
The cabinet unanimously approved a recommendation to scrap the permits, phasing them out over a year.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which OnTheWight is taking part in. Some additions by OnTheWight. Ed
