Controversial Devon pay and display plans could be axed

Controversial proposals to introduce pay and display parking in eight different areas in Devon are poised for withdrawal. 

The areas affected by the proposed pay and display scheme include Tavistock as well as Braunton, Crediton, Dartmouth, Honiton, Okehampton, Salcombe, and Sidmouth.

The report revealed a substantial number of representations received including a total of 5,323 representations, with Tavistock alone contributing over half. 

The council is due to discuss a report on the proposals next Wednesday (March 13) which recommends withdrawing the parking charges. 

The majority of responses expressed opposition to pay and display, citing concerns about its impact on the High Street and local businesses. 

The report has stated that the introduction of pay and display machines was not intended to generate income, but rather to influence travel and parking choices.

Notably, petitions from Dartmouth Against Metered Parking and Crediton garnered significant support with over 3,000 signatures received. 

The move comes amid widespread opposition from residents, businesses, and local councils.

"The recommendation not to proceed with the proposals for pay and display in the eight towns shows that the county council has listened to the feedback from the public and local members following the consultation," stated Devon’s Cabinet member for Highway Management, Stuart Hughes.

Council leader John Hart said: "We are listening to the county councillors who have represented their towns very forcefully. We are listening to the residents and businesses in these towns and to their local councils.”

In a new report by Devon's Director of Climate Change, Environment, and Transport, Meg Booth, it was highlighted that "there has been significant objection to the principle of new pay and display across all communities." 

Ms Booth continued: “There is evidence of parking problems within communities and if and when communities identify potential solutions, these could be considered at a future date.”

Stuart Hughes said: “It is now open to the communities on how they wish to address their parking issues so that joint sustainable solutions can be developed in the future.”