Moray Council to consider parking charge reintroduction
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CAR parking charges in central Elgin could be reintroduced next month.
The area's councillors will consider the proposal, which would come into force on October 26, when they hold a virtual meeting next Tuesday.
Charging in the authority's 15 pay and display car parks in Elgin Town Centre was suspended at the end of March due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
Fees were due to return in August, but that was pushed back until October.
While the suspension was welcomed by central traders, it has had an impact on the council's finances. In 2019/20, charges generated £442,000 net income.
A report to Tuesday's meeting states: "In relation to the council’s role in supporting economic recovery, Moray Economic Partnership are preparing targeted support opportunities for businesses, some of which would fall to the council to finance if supported. This would be a more direct means of providing support for economic recovery than free parking."
The document also recommends that 'Free After 3' parking should come into play at the St Giles Multi Storey car park from December 5, running to January 2.
In addition, councillors are being asked to back a pay-by-phone system for car parking – in line with around 50 per cent of Scottish local authorities.
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