Agenda item

The Committee considered a report of the Corporate Director of Regeneration and Local Services regarding a proposal to introduce a ‘no waiting at any time’ restriction on High Yard, to the rear of Church Lane, Durham City (for copy see file of minutes).

The Committee were informed that High Yard was a short cul-de-sac situated off Hallgarth Street, Durham City, in the vicinity of the Queen Victoria pub.

The Council had received ongoing complaints from local residents and local Members regarding the manner of parking in the area. At present there were advisory white markings which had been partially successful, however, obstructive parking still occurred at the location which had generated several complaints to the Highways Authority and Local Members.

The Committee then received a presentation detailing the following:

·         location plan;

·         initial consultation area and proposals; and

·         photographs showing the parking issues which were occurring.

(for copy see file of Minutes).

The Committee were informed that an informal consultation exercise had taken place which had generated 10 objections in favour. The report stated that there were 11, however, this was a typographical error in the report. The Traffic Management Manager summarised the objections as follows:

·         two objectors didn’t believe there was a problem with the present arrangements, however, it was clearly evident from garage users and local members and the photographs that there were issues;

·         one objector felt that they were being inconvenienced by the proposal, however, the Committee were advised that whilst that may be the case, the proposals were sound in relation to the interests of road safety and accessibility which were of prime concern;

·         three objectors did not state any reasons as to why they had objected to the proposals;

·         one objector had clarified their concerns by email prior to the meeting and had explained that they were presently housebound and referred to potential issues of being picked up and dropped off at their home address which they felt would mean that they could be issued with a penalty notice whilst carrying out the operation. In response, the Traffic Management Manager informed the Committee that in the circumstances outlined, officers would observe the vehicle for around 5-10 minutes and would be very unlikely to receive a parking ticket in the instance outlined;

·         two objectors felt that the current white lining was sufficient. It was explained that the white line did have limited effect, however white lines were advisory markings only and no action could be taken when people chose to ignore it; and

·         one objector felt that there should be a mixed use space comprising a residents permit, pay and display and on-street parking.

The Committee then heard from one of the local councillors for the area. Councillor Freeman explained that cars were obstructing garages, causing residents real difficulty with access. Councillor Freeman felt that the current white advisory road markings were failing as people were simply choosing to ignore them. Councillor Freeman explained that there was sufficient pay and display parking for visitors in nearby Hallgarth Street and could not see any valid reason for rejecting the proposals.

Councillor Ormerod supported the proposals outlined in the report and but was disappointed that the course of action had to be taken, essentially through parking in an inconsiderate manner.

Resolved

That the Committee, having considered the objections, recommend to the Corporate Director of Regeneration and Local Services that the proposal be agreed, with the final decision being made in accordance with the Council’s scheme of delegation.