Residents are being asked to comment on a new On-Street Parking Management Strategy that addresses parking issues, supports towns and communities in Central Bedfordshire, benefits residents, and businesses, and promotes sustainability.

Central Bedfordshire Council has launched a consultation on its proposed parking-related strategy and people are encouraged to comment by 10am on Monday 26 September 2022.

The strategy will be an important element of the council’s overarching Local Transport Plan which manages transport across Central Bedfordshire and it will also contribute to achieving the ambitions set out in the council’s Sustainability Plan.

On-street parking forms an important part of the road network which the council must manage. Left unrestricted, parking can lead to congestion and delays, cause potentially dangerous obstructions on the roads, and can contribute to increased air pollution.

This new strategy will offer a well-planned approach to on-street parking, considering all related issues in a balanced and fair way and intends to make local communities better places to live, work and visit.

Cllr Kevin Collins, Executive Member for Planning and Regeneration, said: “Well-managed parking can help our towns, villages, and communities to thrive and that’s a key aim of our new On-Street Parking Management Strategy.

“Through better management of on-street parking, we can support our roads and road users, ensure our spaces are used appropriately, improve road safety and ultimately enhance the quality of life for residents.

“We all know the importance of tackling climate change and our on-street parking strategy can make a positive contribution. Better management would encourage more walking and cycling for shorter local trips which have associated health and wellbeing benefits and, where possible, using sustainable transport such as electric vehicles, buses or trains for longer journeys we can cut CO₂ emissions and do our bit for sustainability and our environment.”

To read the On-Street Parking Management Strategy and to leave feedback online please go to: www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations

Responses will be reviewed and considered in preparing the strategy for final approval at Executive Committee in early 2023.