If agreed, the proposals could see additional car parking spaces in the town that supports the footfall for traders and businesses.
Amongst the proposals, there is an option for our Council to purchase land belonging to D&G Homes. This land is currently used for pay and display parking but it is not fully used. The successful purchase of this land would mean about 120 free car parking spaces, a net gain of about 65 parking spaces over current usage at peak times.
There could also be a review of on-street parking which would potentially create an extra 75 spaces. This would see street waiting restrictions reviewed and altered to allow this additional parking, whilst also maintaining traffic flow and not adversely affecting road safety. As well as a review of on-street parking, Council car parks would also be looked at and some small changes to layouts could mean an additional 18 parking spaces.
Parking at the Greensands has also been investigated and has a potential capacity of 129 spaces, compared to 75 spaces at present. A stepped pedestrian access to the former art college car park would make this area more accessible.
Assessment of the proximity of these locations to the Whitesands and the High Street indicates that 65% of the possible new parking is less than 2 minutes away from the Whitesands and more than 80%,is less than 5 minutes away, whilst nearly 40% are less than 2 minutes away from the High Street, and nearly 90% less than 5 minute away.
If implemented, these changes together would see 230 replacement spaces provided, replacing the spaces lost alongside the river should the flood protection scheme go ahead.
Councillors will also be asked to consider negotiating with the owners of some privately owned sites, two examples of which could potentially create additional public parking for about 30 vehicles, over and above their existing use.
Cllr Colin Smyth, Chairman of the Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee said
“We have been clear from the start of this process that any car parking which is removed as a result of the flood defences would need to be replaced and these options could see us not only meet this requirement but possibly provide more car parking spaces. We will continue to support traders and businesses on the Whitesands, and in the town generally, and will ensure that as the design progresses there is still parking outside the Whitesands shops and that the bus stances remain in close proximity. It is a frustration to hear people claim that car parking is being lost when the reality is we may in fact increase parking spaces in the town”
