TRANSPORT AND TECHNICAL SERVICES
SHORT STAY PARKING OFFER IN ANN PLACE CAR PARK UNTIL
SATURDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2013
Purpose of the Report
To extend the trial of 4 hour parking in Ann Place Car Park until Saturday 28 September 2013.
Background
Jersey retailers who have premises within St Helier have reported a downturn in trade as a result of the current economic uncertainty which exists. A number of suggestions to try and encourage the local population to use these businesses have been made. Following the trial of free parking for five consecutive Saturdays in Pier Road Car Park, a new initiative involving making Ann Place Car Park a 4 hour maximum stay on Saturdays was trialled and has been successful.
Ann Place Car Park has 145 spaces which are normally occupied by all day parkers. Surveys carried out by Parking Control Officers show this car park to be heavily used with a minimal number of spaces available throughout the day. By changing the maximum stay period allowed on Saturdays it is hoped that the 145 spaces will become available for shoppers to use, rather than long stay parking and with its proximity to the main shopping areas in St Helier this may benefit Town Traders.
The initial trial has proved successful and the proposed extension will provide an increased number of short stay parking spaces for shoppers wishing to park in the North of St Helier for an extended period through to Saturday 28 September 2013.
Because the area will remain chargeable throughout the trial no loss of revenue to Transport and Technical Services is expected, however through the potential of increased trade to St Helier retailers this would benefit the Island’s economy.
Alternative resident and commuter parking is available at Green Street Car Park.
The Minister for Transport and Technical Services previously approved a five week trial on 28 September 2012 under Ministerial Decision MD-T-2012-0078. It is proposed to extend the trial until Saturday 28 September 2013.
The temporary changes can be introduced under Article 68 of the Road Traffic (Jersey) Law 1956 by the placing of appropriate signage. The Road Traffic (Public Parking Places) (Jersey) Order 2006 is created under Article 59 of the Road Traffic (Jersey) Law 1956.
The Road Traffic (Public Parking Places) (Jersey) Order 2006 is administered by the Transport and Technical Services Department.
Discussion
The Town Centre Manager believes the increased availability of short stay parking on Saturdays may increase shopper activity in town. This extension follows on from the initial trial providing 4 hour parking in Ann Place on Saturdays which has been successful.
Recommendations
The Minister is recommended to approve the extension of short stay parking on Saturdays through to Saturday 28 September 2013 inclusive and to instruct Officers to produce the necessary signage and to advise the public using local media and to place the statutory Gazette inserts.
Reason(s) for Decision
The availability of additional short stay parking on Saturdays until the end of September 2013 may assist local businesses within St Helier.
Resource implication
Signage £150, JEP insert £212
Action Required
Officers to produce and place the appropriate advance notice signage and to advise the public using the local media.
Written by: Assistant Manager Parking Control
Approved by: Director of Transport