Residents in Bath have voiced significant opposition to plans for implementing new residents' parking zones (RPZ) in their neighbourhoods. Bath & North East Somerset Council conducted consultations last autumn, responding to requests from local residents to address parking issues.
The council sought opinions on introducing an RPZ in Lambridge and extending the existing Walcot and Snow Hill RPZ into the Grosvenor Place area. Approximately 2,000 properties near the proposed zones received invitations to participate in two consultation surveys.
The Lambridge RPZ proposal attracted 739 responses, with 79% opposing and only 16% supporting the plan. Support was slightly higher, at 23%, among residents living within the proposed zone. Key concerns included the cost of parking permits, limitations on visitor parking, the impact on local shops and businesses, and the potential for vehicles to be displaced onto surrounding streets.
READ MORE: MasterChef’s Grace Dent Names Bristol’s Ragù and Lapin as ‘Absolute Gems’
READ MORE: Yeovil Town ‘Limping to the Line’ as Boss Admits Squad Struggles
The Grosvenor Place extension proposal received 118 responses, with 61% against and 33% in favour. Residents expressed worries over permit expenses, visitor access restrictions, the proposed RPZ boundaries, and the possibility of car displacement to nearby roads.
Supporters of the schemes highlighted issues such as heavy commuter parking, congestion, difficulty finding parking near their homes, unsafe driving behaviours, and poor air quality as reasons for backing the proposals.
Councillor Joel Hirst, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport Strategy, said, “We appreciate everyone who contributed to these important surveys. We will carefully review the feedback before proceeding with any decisions.
“Residents, businesses, and visitors emphasized the need for a balanced approach to parking that accommodates residents, supports local enterprises, and allows visitors, carers, and tradespeople to access the area without disruption.
“Our commitment is to create streets that prioritise safety and accessibility. Further detailed analysis will be conducted, including a closer examination of parking pressures and patterns as requested by local ward councillors, before any final choices are made.”