Update: Elgin car parking charges to be reviewed
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MORAY Council Leader, Councillor Graham Leadbitter, has said that following further national financial announcements he has asked for a review of the decision to reintroduce parking charges from August 1.
He says that since the decision was taken further funding has been announced for councils which could help to mitigate costs associated with a further period of free parking.
In a statement on Thursday afternoon, Cllr Leadbitter said: “Council teams are working extremely hard to support businesses in Moray, whether that is through processing over £18 million in business grants, providing extensive advice on the safe operation of businesses as they re-open, flexibility on the use of public spaces, licensing and much more besides.
“Car Parking has proven to be a thorny issue. The council needs to find ways of getting income streams back on track to fund the vital public services that we deliver like social care, education, environmental health and waste management to name just a few. That needs to be balanced with providing support for businesses to operate.
“There is clearly an emerging issue of public confidence around using machines that involve touching buttons and surfaces, which is understandable and businesses are equally and understandably very nervous about the reintroduction of parking charges.
“Since the decision on reintroducing parking charges there have been further significant funding announcements, which gives us scope to review that decision with a view to extending the time before car park charges are brought back in.
"This rapidly changing picture is likely to continue for some time and it is right to review decisions in light of changing circumstances.”
Businessman Richard Cumming welcomed the news but said he will carry on his petition until he hears that the August 1 date has been put back.
"Councillor Leadbitter did call to advise me and I am delighted they have hopefully seen it from the perspective of the public and the businesses both in terms of safety and support to the businesses.
"I hope the council also take opportunity to have a look at parking across the whole of Moray and making all of our towns accessible and fairly treated."
Business owner launches petition
