Parking consultation sparks strong local response
Public meetings will be held over the next two months to gather local opinion
Last updated 10th Nov 2023
Locals are making sure their voices are heard, as consultations on a new parking strategy get off to a fiery start.
Between a packed public meeting in Castle Douglas, and the 1000 survey responses already recorded - feedback is already rolling in.
The Council say it’s important to explore public views, which will be taken on board as the project takes shape.
Consultations will be held in different locations across the region over the next two months, during which Council officers will lay out various ideas and discuss plans.
As introduced in some other local authorities, the decriminalisation of parking is being considered as a possibility, meaning enforcement would become the responsibility of the council.
Proposed changes could also see the introduction of paid parking in some locations, sparking concern amongst certain communities.
Those present at the first consultation in Castle Douglas on the 27th of September made sure to voice their worries.
Locals want their concerns to be heard
Attendees including shop and restaurant owners suggested charges would have a detrimental effect on high street businesses, and discourage people from using the town.
Local resident Alistair Scobie said Castle Douglas has a thriving High Street that should be kept in mind:
“I believe the reason we have all these shops still on our High Street is because we have people who want to use them, and the reason they do that is because they can park close to them to do all their shopping.
“I do believe we need to make changes to our parking in Castle Douglas, but I think it’s mainly about enforcing the existing parking regulations to make the High Street safe for everyone.”
Locals say they want answers as to exactly how their feedback will be taken on board, and that they want assurances plans won’t be approved without community support.
Chair of the Communities Committee Ian Blake is reminding people the project is still in the very early stages, and that community feedback absolutely will be considered:
“It is important to us that everyone who has an opinion to share on parking across our region can contribute to the development of our new strategy.”
He’s also encouraging locals to fill out the survey, either in person at one of the consultations, or online:
“Staff from the Roads Network Strategy and Ward Working teams will be at events to provide information, listen to your views, and to support you in completing the consultation survey.”
Further information on consultation dates and locations, as well as a link to the online survey is available on the council website.