Parking policies to be reviewed

Guidance on where people can park in County Durham and for how long goes before councillors for approval next week.

Durham County Council has produced the County Durham Parking Policies document which set out its position on the provision and management of on and off street parking across County Durham, and on other parking controls.

The document is a revision of an earlier version following the introduction of civil parking enforcement countywide and reflects changes in guidance on enforcement and to legislation.

New policies have been added covering electric charging bays, observation times and grace periods, blue badge enforcement, car club bays, driveway protection and keep clear markings, enforcement at dropped kerb crossings, and caravans and trailers.

Policies relating to permit parking areas have also been changed.

The document goes before the council’s Cabinet for approval at its meeting on Wednesday 13th July.

Cllr Neil Foster, cabinet portfolio holder for economic regeneration, said: “Parking is important to many people’s daily lives and to our economy.

“It allows people access to services and places, and as a result there is often competition for the limited number of spaces at both on and off street locations.

“As a rural county with a spread out population, it is important that there is enough parking of the right type and in the right places to support the economy of County Durham, our town centres and future development and growth.”

If agreed, the document will be reviewed when the first North East Combined Authority Transport Plan is produced, with this currently due for adoption in 2017.