Fees anger could prompt prom parking re-think

The plan, which was put out to public consultation by highways authority Lancashire County Council last autumn, prompted a storm of protest.

Fylde Council and St Annes Town Council both lodged objections and were joined by the St Annes Enterprise Partnership in expressing fears that it would have a seriously adverse effect on tourism, particularly when the local economy is looking to recover from lockdown.

Fylde MP Mark Menzies voiced his dismay, while a host of residents expressed concern at the likely congestion it would cause on nearby sideroads if the traditionally free roadside parking along the promenade – with some time limits nearer St Annes Pier – had to be paid for.

After the consultation closed in November, initial indications from County Hall were that there had been around 300 responses and that after consideration by officers, a recommendation would go to a future meeting of LCC’s cabinet, possibly early this year.

But now, the county council has revised the total of responses to the proposals to nearer 600 and County Coun Keith Iddon, cabinet member for highways and transport, says time will be taken to ensure the right decision is taken.

He said: “The number of responses to the consultation shows that this is a really important issue for local people and it’s therefore something we need to get right.

“I have asked officers to carefully consider the responses we’ve received and have another look at the proposals before we decide how to proceed.”

Mr Menzies said: “This shows that people power actually works.

“A huge number of representations opposing the scheme were sent to me and I sent them all on to the county council, and urged as many people as possible to do the same.

“It is clear this scheme is incredibly unpopular with residents.

“This proposal was not fully thought out and no regard was given to those residents on roads off the promenade who would undoubtedly face issues with people parking outside their homes if the scheme went ahead.

“I am delighted at the level of feedback provided to the county council – they have a lot to consider.”

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