New parking restrictions proposed for Craster

Craster Parish Council has launched a public consultation on a proposal to introduce a residents permit parking zone.

Possible measures to put a stop to inconsiderate parking in the village has been discussed with Northumberland County Council in recent months.

The idea of resident permit parking has already received overwhelming support at a public meeting.

Coun Wendy Pattison, local ward member on Northumberland County Council, said: “Parking issues within Craster are becoming more and more concerning.

"Access issues and often visitor use of Craster streets to park their cars are causing difficulties for local residents.

"I am particularly concerned about the impact of restricted access for emergency vehicles should, for example, a fire engine or ambulance be required.

"Because of this and other concerns, I have decided to fund a full resident parking consultation to give residents a say on the matter.”

Coun Martin Smith, parish council chairman, added: “Craster is such an incredible place to live and visit but sadly inconsiderate and displaced car parking is blighting the lives of local residents and is by far the biggest issue of complaint that we are contacted about.

"It is time that we do something about this. I would urge every resident to vote in favour of this scheme.

"This is a golden opportunity to resolve a serious issue in our community and ultimately something needs to be done.”

As part of the scheme, signs would be erected as necessary but bays are not required.

To cover administrative costs, residents would be asked to purchase permits for £25 per year, with a maximum of two permits per household with one permit reserved for residents and one for visitor parking.

If accepted, this scheme will be for a 12-month trial period only and reviewed afterwards. As part of this, there will be a further public consultation.

Local residents are asked to submit their views to the parish council by no later than Friday, August 14.

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