Requesting a new parking scheme/zone or review of an existing one
If you are experiencing ongoing parking problems in your area, you can ask for the introduction of a parking scheme or zone. Parking zones manage on-street parking by:
- prioritising space for residents
- improving access
- safety
- reducing congestion
You can also ask for a review if you live in an existing parking scheme or zone. This may be because you think it is no longer suitable or effective.
You will need to raise to your local Ward Councillors:
- requests for a new parking scheme or zone
- requests to review an existing parking scheme or zone
Ward Councillors will engage with us on behalf of the community. You can find your Ward Councillor and how to contact them.
To be considered, a new parking scheme or zone should:
- cover at least three connected streets
- contain a minimum of 150 properties
We must also consider how parking problems may be pushed into neighbouring streets.
If the criteria above are met, Ward Councillors will lead an informal consultation with local residents. At least 70% of households must respond, and a minimum of 55% of responses must support the proposal for it to move forward.
Where there is enough support, we may carry out parking stress surveys to assess demand. These surveys must show that 70% (or higher) of parking spaces are consistently being used. If this is evidenced, a draft scheme can be developed. The design process takes into account:
- local needs
- available kerb space
- road safety
The next stage requires a formal consultation and legal notice. If the scheme is approved, we will:
- install signs and road markings
- allow residents to apply for permits
The full process to implement a parking scheme or zone takes around 8 months from initial request to implementation. This depends on the complexity of the scheme and available resources.
Requests to review an existing parking scheme or zone follow the same process. A review can be requested by the Ward Councillors if residents believe the current scheme is no longer working. Ward Councillors will lead an informal consultation to show support from residents. If there is sufficient support, we will carry out a reassessment of parking demand and look at operational issues such as:
- enforcement activity
- design concerns
Any changes or removal of a parking scheme or zone can only be considered if there is clear community support. Installation or changes to a parking scheme or zone follows a statutory process. This usually takes around 32 weeks. This may vary depending on the complexity and number of requests.
Please note that all schemes are subject to available funding.
Further details about types of parking permits, costs and eligibility are available on our Parking Permits page.