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The proposals will see car parking charges being introduced at Lodge Farm Park , Cottons Park and Upminster Park . Cllr Linda Hawthorn, who spoke at the meeting on behalf of the Upminster ward, said: “The car park by the New Windmill Hall in Upminster Park is set aside for users of the hall and the park. Only a few weeks ago the council agreed to press ahead with plans to lease the hall to a community group, now it has made that more difficult by introducing unnecessary car parking charges.” Cllr Clarence Barrett (Cranham, RA), who sat on the Highways Advisory Committee and voted against the proposals, said: “There should be absolutely no car park charges in any of our parks. “ The Administration is trying to justify the charges by claiming the parks are full up with commuters. However, Upminster Park has a barrier in place until 9.30am every morning to overcome this problem. Similar methods of deterrence, such as maximum stay lengths, can easily be introduced to deal with commuter parking issues without having to charge. “However, the real motive behind this is simply a money making exercise which penalises genuine park users.” The voting saw all 5 conservatives vote for the scheme while the Labour, Independent Residents' Group and the Residents' Association members voted against. 15.12.11 |
Controversial plans to introduce charges to park in three of the boroughs parks were slammed by the Residents' Association last week as the Highways Advisory Committee agreed by 5 votes to 4 to proceed with the proposals.