Businesses and residents in the Hillrise West area are being re-consulted over the next four weeks on whether they want a controlled parking zone. The area was first consulted in March 2004, when residents rejected controlled parking. Some residents have since complained of road rage incidents over disputed parking spaces. They have asked the council for controlled parking and safety improvements to help pedestrians and access for emergency vehicles.Double yellow lines are to be painted on junctions and corners over the next few weeks to ensure that access for emergency services is maintained at all times.Consultation documents are being sent to approximately 4000 addresses in the area. The Consultation asks whether residents support controlled parking, and if so, which of four options they prefer for the hours and days of operation.The four options are Option A Mon - Fri from 8.30am to 6.30pmOption B Mon - Fri from 8.30am to 6.30pm and Sat from 8.30 - 1.30Option C Mon - Fri from 8.30am to 8.30pm and Sat from 8.30 - 1.30Option D Mon - Fri from 10.00am to 2.00pmAn option for a two-hour CPZ has not been offered in the formal consultation questionnaire. This is because investigations show that two-hour controls are problematic because many non-residents park in the area for less than a normal working day. There might also be a displacement effect from other neighbouring zones. However if residents feel strongly about a two-hour CPZ they should provide an extra comment to this effect.Cllr. George Allan, executive member for customer focus said: “We want to hear from as many people as possible about whether they want a CPZ. We understand that some residents face greater problems than others, which might lead the Council to designating a smaller CPZ . We are also asking people to bear in mind that we are consulting surrounding areas about introducing CPZ’s, which could impact on parking in the Hillrise West area.”The council’s traffic engineers will be available to answer questions about the plans at drop-in sessions on Thursday 3rd February between 5.00pm and 8.00pm at Caxton House, St John’s Way, and at St Andrews Church, Gladsmuir Road on Saturday 5 February between 12 noon and 3 pm. The consultation questionnaire should be completed and returned by Friday 28 February.
Page Last Updated: 29 July 2008