The car parks considering charging drivers based on demand for spaces

Further calls have been made to consider adopting a new approach to car parking charges in parts of Cheshire. The Conservative group leader on Cheshire East has questioned the council over its parking strategy and charging policy, which is currently under review.

Cllr Janet Clowes (Wybunury) said the council is missing out on a big opportunity if it doesn’t explore the option of joining the national parking platform (NPP). One of the options being looked at as part of the review is piloting a system of ‘demand responsive parking charges’ at a number of locations, including the new multi-storey car park currently under construction in Crewe, as well as sites in Macclesfield and Wilmslow.

There are references in a council report to hiking up charges across the borough too. The council will consult with the public in September about the proposals.

Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features.

Cllr Clowes said: “I recognise that Cheshire East Council has to deal with the car parking issue and I welcome the opportunity for a full public consultation to take place, however I am disappointed that the papers that have been published for committee are so short on detail and don’t really give any indication about what exactly is going to be consulted upon. I hope that will change.”

She added: “I also hope that the council will take on board the important notice of motion that I have put forward to full council on the day before the committee meets, which is exploring the potential of the national parking platform which has been issued and operational since 2019 by the Department for Transport in conjunction with Manchester City Council.

“There is a lot of incredibly