Plans for long-stay charges at council-owned car parks in Slough

Slough Borough Council is considering introducing charges at free council car parks to combat abuse by commuters and commercial operators.

The borough is looking at charging drivers who park for longer than two or three hours at a selection of council-owned facilities.

Charges are proposed after three hours of free parking at the following locations:

• Salt Hill Car Park
• Slough Ice Arena Car Park
• Langley Leisure Centre Car Park
• The Centre Car Park

Charges are proposed after two hours of free parking at the following locations:

• Upton Court Car Park
• Lascelles Park Car Park
• Harvey Park Car Park
• Manor Park Recreation Ground Car Park

There will be no opportunity to extend parking beyond the initial period of free parking at Cippenham Recreation Ground, Harvey Park or Manor Park Recreation Ground.

For the remaining six car parks, there will be the option for car park users to stay beyond the free period, subject to payment of the following fees: 3 to 5 hours - £5, 5 to 10 hours - £10, 10 to 24 hours - £20.

The council said Blue Badger holders will be subject to the proposed limitations in both disabled and other parking bays.

Councillor Paul Kelly (Con, Haymill), cabinet member for planning, parking, highways and transport, said: “We want to deter businesses from using our car parks for long periods of time as free storage. We feel that by introducing charges, and increasing enforcement of the car parks, we will keep more spaces clear for their intended use – short term visits to use local amenities.

“Any money generated will go back into the upkeep of the car parks and for parking enforcement. We urge residents to share their views on how these proposed changes might impact them.”

He added the council wants to ensure its parks, open spaces and leisure facilities remain accessible for everyone’s health and wellbeing.

“The initial period of free parking will mean people can still take their dog for a walk, enjoy a run, or use the play equipment on site.

“There is an additional hour of free parking at the three leisure sites.”

A consultation about the proposals is running until Friday, October 3.

Residents should send any comments by email to Parking.Consultations@slough.gov.uk or write to Parking Development, Observatory House, 25 Windsor Road, Slough, SL1 2EL.

Further information is available on the public notices page at slough.gov.uk