As a result of the pavement parking ban, the Transport Committee at Edinburgh Council is going to ban all parking in Bangholm Park, Road, Avenue, Place and Clark Avenue with the introduction of double yellow lines.
These narrow streets have always coped with some parking on just one side of the road as the vehicles edged up two wheels on the pavement, but this is no longer allowed. They will also ban parking on the south side of Ferry Road at Goldenacre Playing Fields. the displacement of parking is likely to also impact on Clark Road and other surrounding areas.
The Scottish Conservative councillors opposed this decision in a vote at the Committee and submitted an amendment which suggested an exemption from the pavement parking ban for the Bangholm area. The Scottish Conservatives were the only party to vote for an exemption and would have also created a “mews” controlled parking zone in the area which would mean only residents could park there. They believed this was in line with residents wishes and would allow neighbours to trust each other and work together to park sensibly within the area.
Unfortunately, seven councillors from other parties voted for the double yellow lines and no parking at all within the area while the Lib Dems voted for a separate amendment suggesting more consultation BUT no exemption. In doing so they completely ignored the wishes of residents.
Sue Webber MSP and Councillor Iain Whyte, the leader of the Scottish Conservative Council Group at the City of Edinburgh Council, will do everything they can to promote common sense solutions to local problems and meet residents’ needs.
Sue Webber MSP said: “I am deeply disappointed that the councillors from all other parties including the Lib Dems have taken such a militant approach to the application of the Pavement Parking Legislation. The law allows for exemptions and it would be entirely appropriate to permit such an exemption here in the Bangholms. This is the exact scenario that legislation sought to address. I sincerely hope the Council will reconsider and find a solution that works for all the residents in the local area.
Cllr Iain Whyte, Conservative Group Leader and a member of the Transport Committee said: “Having listened to the views of residents it was clear an exemption from the pavement parking ban was needed in the Bangholms. The Committee heard directly from residents at the meeting, but the majority of councillors completely ignored their wishes and the views expressed by the Community Council. They clearly don’t trust local residents to park in a sensible way and don’t believe local views should be listened to. there is no easy way to overturn this vote but if an opportunity arises we will take it.”
