As a London council have rebuked their decision to significantly raise proposed parking permits, the AA have indicated that other boroughs of London may feel the rise instead.
Richmond claimed the scheme was aimed at encouraging residents to change their cars to lower-emitting models. This came about three years ago in West London, when the council was criticised for condoning certain cars in the area because it forced drivers to pay more for their permits. Opponents said it was all about raising additional income for the council, as the the fees could vary from £45-£100, up to a massive £750.
The families with driveways or garages were always better off because this costs them nothing, but the householders who parked on the road side were forced to pay residential parking. A spokes man from the AA said the scheme was targeting larger families who needed larger cars to allow them to transport their family members.
The Conservatives, who have now taken over the Lib Dems at local council level, campaigned heavily against the discrimination against the family car before they gained control, have now scrapped the idea.
Richmond Council Member, Clare Head stated that:
“We believe the new charges are fairer as they do not differentiate between the types of cars residents drive.”
Although Richmond borough may have been successful in the lowering of the permit charges, other boroughs within the capital may be not so lucky. Lambeth are reported to be keeping permit prices high in order to afford any maintenance repairs needed for local roads.