Parking charges to be ‘authorised’ at currently free Handy Cross car park
It has been the “intention” to introduce charges “since the car park was built”.
New restrictions and tariffs at a town car park are set to be agreed next week.
Members of Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet will meet to “authorise” new parking charges at Handy Cross Park and Ride (P&R), in High Wycombe, which is currently free.
The reason for the change in policy is it has been the “intention” to introduce charges “since the car park was built” to ensure “consistency” with other council car parks.
It is also to “discourage parking in the town centre, consequently reducing congestion and pollution”, according to council documents.
Buckinghamshire Council held a consultation on the issue, which ended on 20 September.
The matter is due for discussion during a Cabinet meeting, on Tuesday, 13 October.
Among the new recommendations, there will now be just 30 minutes of free parking ‘to support parents dropping off and picking up schoolchildren’.
A four-hour tariff will be £1.20 to ‘support parking at Wycombe Leisure Centre’.
Up to ten hours will be £3, 24 hours – £4, 48 hours – £8, 72 hours – £12, and (max) 96 hours – £16.
Disabled Badge holders will park for free, as will those using the P&R facility.
Fees and charges will apply to electric vehicle drivers to ‘enable sufficient recharge turnover’.
Parking Permits are priced at £60 per month or £720 for the year.
The 396-space car park will be open 24-hours a day, 365-days a year, however charges will cease on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Easter Sunday.
The car park will also be barrier controlled.
Chip and PIN and contactless payments will be available, as will ‘pay by phone parking service’ RingGo.
There is no mention of coins.
A bus to the town centre, which is free Monday to Friday and £2.50 on Saturdays, is set for review on 31 March, 2021.