First phase of Chichester parking changes to be implemented

The changes, which include a mix of new controlled parking zones and extensions, could come into force as soon as December.

While some are set to be implemented, others will be redesigned and consulted on again.

The first phase includes Zone A (Donnington), Zone S (Swanfield) and extensions to Zone F (Whyke), Zone H (Hornet) and Zone N (Little Breach).

Zone U (Westhampnett) is being deferred to be part of phase two with the exception of the proposed double yellow lines.

The changes would be monitored and further changes considered two to three months later as part of a periodic review of the existing CPZs.

Implementation of the rest of the proposed new zones and extensions has been deferred into phase two with further redesign work and consultation due to be carried out.

This would allow for the initial impact of Covid-19 on parking usage to be reviewed as well as understanding the effect of the changes in the first phase.

But certain no waiting at any time restrictions in some of the deferred zones are due to be brought in.

These are in proposed new zones C (Parklands West), P (Summersdale West), Q (Summersdale Central), R (Winterbourne East), T (Portfield North), V (Portfield South) and U.

This is considered an essential preventative measure to deal with both existing safety and access concerns as well as anticipated effects of parking displaced by the introduction of new zones.

According to county council officers: “In common with controls in those existing zones, restrictions predominantly aim to facilitate parking for residents and their visitors, whilst ensuring safety and tackling issues of traffic congestion and local access difficulties.”

Parking usage in deferred zones will be monitored to assess the impact of implementing the first phase.

Adrian Moss, group leader of the Lib Dems at Chichester District Council, said: “We are pleased that it is be reviewed and some of the changes are welcome. The council clearly on this occasion took account of residents’ concerns. It is important that it is introduced over time to ensure that all areas are working.

“We are certainly pleased that parking controls have been introduced in places like Donnington where parking for residents had been very difficult at times with workers parking in residential streets and walking into Chichester.”

The CPZ review is part of the county council’s new approach for a longer-term plan to meet current and future on-street parking demands.

Known as ‘road space audits’ the strategy is intended to complement existing statutory plans and emerging studies.

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