26 January 2011 - Welcome for Relaxation in Parking

The Conservative-led Government has relaxed the rules on parking provision for new developments.

 The changes to planning rules PPG13 and PPS3 mean that in future the Government will not stipulate a maximum number of parking spaces for new developments, leaving the choice up to the London Mayor and Boroughs when drawing up planning policy.

It is an issue Barnet Conservatives have long campaigned on. They believe that the optimum level of off-street parking spaces should be based on local considerations, not Whitehall dictats.

“I am pleased that the Government is stopping the anti-motorist rhetoric left over by Labour,” said Cabinet member for Planning, Housing and Regeneration, Cllr. Richard Cornelius.  “I look forward to working with Mayor Boris to ensure adequate parking provision on new developments in the borough.”

Barnet Council will now investigate whether the upper limit for parking can now be relaxed and a lower limit introduced, subject to both consultation and conformity with the London Plan (currently at Draft stage). The issue was debated in a Policy Item at Council on 25 January.

“The Conservative administration is seeking a minimum requirement and a relaxation in the upper limit. The car is essential for cross Borough journeys and what is appropriate in the centre of London for parking is not sufficient in outer suburbs”, Cllr. Cornelius added.