To receive information regarding the Council's parking strategy, commenting on proposals and recommending a decision by the Executive.

The Assistant Director (AD) for Highways and Transport delivered a report outlining the progress and vision of the Parking Strategy, highlighting the policies which would help shape strategic development.

In light of the report Members expressed concerns regarding parking on verges, the damage caused as a result and the measures available to minimise the issue. In response the AD for Highways and Transport agreed that the financial implications and current measures would be assessed in order to ensure the best outcomes. The Director for Community Services confirmed that there were no additional financial implications for the strategy and that it was part of the existing budget.

A Member expressed the view that the strategy was centred around retail and urban need with not enough focus on rural areas. In response the AD for Highways and Transport cited similarities between urban and rural parking problems and the lack of parking spaces across the region, whereby a discussion arose around the need for better parking provision for schools and the need to encourage walking and cycling where possible in order to reduce the number of cars. Members agreed that improved communication with Network Rail could result in more parking provision at local train stations.

Clarification was sought with regards to the need for Park and Ride within Central Bedfordshire and it was confirmed that the current need was not high. The AD also confirmed measures relating to the graduated approach taken with regards to enforcement, that letters would be sent to offenders before full enforcement action was taken.

RECOMMENDED that an additional report be delivered at a future meeting.