Moray Council agrees to freeze Elgin parking charges for six months
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MORAY Council has agreed to freeze parking charges in Elgin for six months to allow time for traffic problems to be addressed in the town centre.
The annual review of Moray Council charges was discussed by the Corporate Committee today (January 31).
Councillor Kathleen Robertson, Moray Council leader, proposed the freeze to allow for further collaboration between councillors and stakeholders regarding the issues in Elgin. The motion was seconded by Councillor Amber Dunbar.
Cllr Robertson added that concerns, which have been raised regarding the Plainstones and the High Street area in Elgin, had to be discussed further before any 'hasty' decisions are made.
“I’m pleased that committee were able to reach consensus in exploring the issues more widely before imposing charges which may not resolve the current issues," Cllr Robertson said.
“We recognise that there are real concerns from local residents and businesses around parking in Elgin and we are seeking a collaborative resolution.
“Whilst we have a responsibility to be financially prudent, it is important that we also deliver for our communities, so without further evidence gathering we did not want to rush into a decision.”
Cllr Dunbar said: "Elgin councillors hear and see so often the problems surrounding parking in the town centre – such as illegal parking particularly on the High Street, Plainstones and Batchen Street – and I think we are all keen to find a cross-party solution."
Cllr Robertson, alongside Civic Leader John Cowe, has been meeting with businesses, Elgin BID, Moray Chamber of Commerce and Visit Moray to discuss the problems over the last several weeks.
The proposal to freeze parking charges was unanimously agreed upon by members of the committee and received cross-party support.
SNP councillor Graham Leadbitter added: "We must be really careful when we consider parking charges to get a balance that manages parking availability, supports footfall in the town and maintains affordable parking for workers in the city centre, especially those who are lower paid.
“I welcome the agreement of a consultation on this with local councillors and local business interests before any final decision is taken on future charges.
"Elgin must be an affordable place to live, work in and visit.”
