Council scrutiny backs Devon parking charge changes after review

Devon County councillors have supported plans to increase on-street parking charges after the proposal was reviewed by a scrutiny committee.

The changes were first approved in September by Councillor Dan Thomas, Cabinet Member for Highways. 

Some councillors asked for the decision to be re-examined under the council’s “call-in” process, which allows a scrutiny committee to review how and why decisions are made.

READ NEXT: Tavistock celebrates Goose Fair success and long-serving team member’s retirement

At a meeting of the Corporate Infrastructure and Regulatory Services Scrutiny Committee last Wednesday (22 October) councillors discussed the possible impact of higher charges on local traders and residents.

Councillor Thomas said the increases were part of an ongoing parking management policy designed to reduce congestion by encouraging drivers to use car parks instead of on-street spaces.

He said on-street tariffs are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain slightly higher than district council car park rates.

“By law any surplus income from parking charges can only be used for local transport schemes, such as bus services, or for highway maintenance and environmental improvements,” he added.

After discussion, the committee voted to support the original decision. 

However, members also asked the Cabinet to review how often parking charges are changed in future and to consider setting a maximum price cap.

The committee also backed continued partnership work with district councils on coordinating car park charges.

Committee chair Councillor Helen Brown thanked members and officers for their input.

“Scrutiny committees do not make decisions, but play a crucial role in holding decision-makers to account as a ‘critical friend’,” she said.

“Our role is to examine proposals in detail, ask difficult questions, and make sure the best outcomes are being pursued for the people of Devon.

“Anyone who watched the meeting online will have seen a fair and open process aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability.”

Councillor Thomas said he welcomed the review.

“The scrutiny committee has looked closely at the original decision and has supported that decision.

“Their work helps ensure decisions remain transparent and accountable, which is vital in local democracy.”