By Patrick LowmanMOTORISTS could be charged to park in an historic town centre under a package of measures to tackle traffic problems.The first on-street pay-and-display scheme in Bury St Edmunds looks certain to be introduced as part of a review of parking spaces in the town centre.

By Patrick Lowman

MOTORISTS could be charged to park in an historic town centre under a package of measures to tackle traffic problems.

The first on-street pay-and-display scheme in Bury St Edmunds looks certain to be introduced as part of a review of parking spaces in the town centre.

St Edmundsbury Borough Council officers have proposed the going ahead with the scheme following complaints from business leaders and residents about parking problems in the area.

Residents complained of a lack of parking spaces and increased traffic outside their homes, while many businesses said their customers had found it almost impossible to park near their shops.

Jeremy Farthing, the council's portfolio holder for environment, said: “The local community have requested we look closely at the parking arrangements for this area.

“It's a limited resource and we need to make sure we are maximising the benefits for our priority users - namely residents, disabled persons and local business customers.

“Hopefully, these new proposals will address the current problems and be a big improvement for all concerned.”

The town's first on-street pay and display scheme would operate in Guildhall Street, Churchgate Street, Abbeygate Street, Hatter Street and in parts of Whiting Street, Looms Lane, Brentgovel Street and Lower Baxter Street.

Charges would operate between 9am to 5pm from Mondays to Saturdays, with a maximum two-hour stay costing between 20p and £2 per stay.

Other proposals include introducing resident-only parking bays in Bridewell Lane, College Street and Whiting Street, also between 9am to 5pm from Mondays to Saturdays.

Council officials said although the move would increase the cost of parking permits, it would provide more opportunities for residents to park.

It is also proposed to introduce seven new disabled parking bays in Church Street, Guildhall Street, Hatter Street, Looms Street and Whiting Street.

The proposals will now go back to the residents and business leaders for further consultation before they can be introduced. They will also be considered by St Edmundsbury Borough Council's cabinet later in the year.

patrick.lowman@eadt.co.uk