RESIDENTS are being invited to have their say on Cheshire West and Chester Council’s residents’ parking scheme policy.

The consultation begins on September 1, and runs until November 18.

The council’s current policy has been in place since October 2011 when it was formally approved following public consultation.

Since it was implemented, two new Residents’ Parking Zones (RPZs) have been introduced, two existing RPZs have been extended, and six proposed RPZs have been refused, as they did not achieve the required level of support following consultation with residents.

A residents’ parking scheme is created by introducing a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

The Order restricts parking during certain hours (typically 8am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday) but it exempts permits holders from the restrictions.

Permit categories vary and different permits are available to residents, their visitors and carers or health care professionals.

Schemes can take different forms: for example, bays may be for the exclusive use of resident permit holders or, if the bays are shared, other motorists would be subject to a time limit, typically of between 10 and 30 minutes.

Any vehicles which are found parked without a valid permit during the hours of operation of the scheme are subject to a Penalty Charge Notice.

The council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Councillor Karen Shore said: “As the policy has now been operating for five years, it is appropriate to carry out a review and to consult on potential improvements.

“There are a number of ways to get involved in the consultation and I hope as many people as possible will give their views.

“A Residents’ Parking Scheme can help ensure parking is provided, as far as possible, for those residents who need it.

“Schemes may also improve traffic flow and access for emergency services, as well as improving safety for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.

“However schemes can also reduce the overall parking capacity available as it is often necessary to prevent parking on the opposite side of the street to ensure clear passage for vehicles.

“We need to give every application careful consideration and engage fully with the residents affected.”

There is a range of ways to express your views: Go online to complete the survey: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/ResidentsParkingPolicy, email parking@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk, call 0300 123 7024 or write to - Parking Services, Cheshire West and Chester Council, 4 Civic Way, Ellesmere Port.