Changes to 'confusing' parking scheme expected by 2025

Residents have spoken out against the contentious parking controls in Cheltenham's Zone 15

Changes to a controversial parking permit scheme could be rolled out within months.

Residents in Cheltenham are to have their say on the permits, which were introduced in December, at two upcoming events.

The scheme covers the All Saints area, known as Zone 15, and has been beset by rows, delays and apologies.

Highways and flooding cabinet member Dom Morris said: "It’s so important that residents and businesses in the area have an opportunity to share their experiences so we can ensure that the scheme is working for local people.”

Gloucestershire County Council confirmed in May the start of the parking scheme's review.

Since then, the county council’s independent consultants, Project Centre, have been reviewing feedback and undertaking on-site parking surveys.

Zone 15 covers streets including Hewlett Road and London Road.

'Confusion is the buzz word'

It was set up to discourage commuters from parking in residential areas and make it easier for residents to park outside their homes.

However, people have complained about a lack of clarity over the signage, with one Fairview resident claiming "confusion is probably the buzz word of the day".

The review is looking at parking usage in the area to understand better how Zone 15 is working, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The aim is to ensure the controls are appropriate for the needs and uses of the local community.

Two drop-in sessions are taking place to gather ideas and thoughts from local residents.

The Project Centre team will then develop designs for an updated scheme to share with the public.

The sessions are taking place at Cheltenham Cricket Club on 18 July and All Saints Church on 20 July.

Council officials will roll out "changes and improvements" towards the end of 2024, or early in 2025.