Motorists set for parking fees rise

All-day parking in Chichester will rise from 3 to 3.50 a day while monthly tickets will cost 5 more '“ rising to 35.

The proposals have been put forward in a bid to cover inflation and carry out much-needed improvements, with some charges set to rise and others remaining the same in a package proposed for 2009/10.

A total of 360,000 in extra income is predicted as a result of the changes '“ 175,000 to cover inflation and committed spending and 185,000 towards improvements.

The executive board is recommending that 600,000 should be spent over the next four years on a refurbishment of the Avenue de Chartres decked car park.

The improvements will include removing and replacing a waterproof coating on the roof, anti-graffiti coatings and concrete repairs.

On top of that 35,000 is to be earmarked towards a scheme for signs which will indicate the number of vacant spaces in the city centre.

Council leader Cllr Myles Cullen said the most important thing as far as visitors to Chichester were concerned was the new messaging system.

"I've seen people going round in frustration, not able to find anywhere to park," he added.

"This will be a great enhancement for visitors trying to find a parking space."

Derek James, portfolio holder for community safety, said that compared with rival centres at Worthing and Portsmouth, Chichester's car park prices remained very competitive.

The plans follow hot on the heels of the district council's hike of the cost of all-day parking in the city centre's short-stay car parks to 10, in a move designed to keep the city's car parks free for shoppers.

But a report to the board warned while some city-centre workers may be encouraged to car share by the increased charges, it will result in others looking for free on-street parking.

The recommendation will now be passed on to the full council for approval on October 21.

What do you think? Click here to send a letter or leave a comment below.

Click here to go back to Chichester news

Click here to go back to Bognor Regis news

Click here to go back to Midhurst and Petworth news

To tell us where in the world you are reading this story click on the link below to add yourself to our readers' map.

MAP