A new resident’s parking scheme is to be introduced in West Didsbury.  This is something that I have been campaigning to introduce for some time now, so I am extremely pleased to see that progress is being made.  The proposed scheme will now cover a much bigger area than the pilot scheme first announced last year, covering roads from Creswell Grove and Northern Grove to the former hospital site and from Cavendish Road to Barlow Moor Road.

I know some residents and local traders are worried about what the scheme will mean for them and I’d like to take this chance to assure local residents that the scheme will strike the correct balance of easing parking problems for residents and enhancing the offer for traders on Burton Road. 

Parking permits for those who live within the proposed scheme’s boundaries are likely to be provided free of charge.  Whilst it is possible that there could be a small administration fee, the details of this have yet to be worked out and this is absolutely something that could be raised in the consultation due to begin in the Autumn.  Measures will be put in place, subject to this consultation, to allow shoppers and restaurant goers free short-stay parking in order to enhance trade in the area.   Furthermore, a massive investment in the Burton Road shopping area is also anticipated, including new trees, new pavements and a better parking layout.

Contrary to their claims to have secured the proposal themselves, the local Lib Dems wanted the funds ear-marked for the parking scheme to be spent elsewhere in West Didsbury.  They wanted the residents of West Didsbury to pay for the scheme themselves!  This is not going to be the case.

I have been lobbying the Council for over a year to release the funds available to ease parking problems and invest in the area without residents having to pay.  I’m really happy that this is what is now coming forward. 

The Labour Council will begin a formal consultation with residents and traders in the autumn so watch out for more details.