DECISION

1.    To introduce a one-hour free parking facility close to markets on market days in the 248 parking bays identified.

2.    To approve the amendments and introduction of parking bays for the Whitechapel Road Market, as detailed in Paragraph 3.3 of the report, and for the necessary Traffic Management Order making process to be carried out, if the decision is to proceed with the introduction of one-hour free parking.

3.    To note the specific equalities considerations as set out in Paragraph 4 of the report.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, PLACE (A. SUTCLIFFE)

(Head of Parking, Mobility and Market Services (M. Darby)

Councillor Abu Chowdhury, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Skills and Growth, introduced the report on introducing one-hour free parking facilities close to markets within the borough. He highlighted the equalities analysis in the report.

Like the last report, this was also a manifesto commitment and it was intended to help support the borough’s markets and market traders by encouraging increased accessibility to their businesses.

During discussion concerns raised by Councillor Sirajul Islam, Leader of the Opposition Labour Group, around use of the parking spaces by commuters were noted. However, significant support was heard from Members at the meeting and it was considered that an impact on residents was unlikely and that this would encourage the use of the borough’s markets.

The Mayor, welcomed the report and agreed the recommendations as set out in the report.

RESOLVED

1.    To introduce a one-hour free parking facility close to markets on market days in the 248 parking bays identified.

2.    To approve the amendments and introduction of parking bays for the Whitechapel Road Market, as detailed in Paragraph 3.3 of the report, and for the necessary Traffic Management Order making process to be carried out, if the decision is to proceed with the introduction of one-hour free parking.

3.    To note the specific equalities considerations as set out in Paragraph 4 of the report.