Parking changes set to be amended after criticism

Bradford Council previously proposed a complete removal of one-hour free parking on streets in Ilkley

Controversial changes to parking charges in Ilkley are set to be amended after hundreds of people criticised the plan.

Bradford Council's proposals included removing a one-hour free on-street parking concession, extending charging hours and introducing bank holiday charging as part of previous budget decisions.

There were more than 600 objections to the plans, with a petition signed by almost 1,500 people in opposition.

Following the feedback, the local authority said it planned to retain the one-hour free parking in some streets within easy walking distance of the town centre.

These include New Brook Street, Kings Road and Cowpasture Road, which totals 161 spaces, whilst evening and bank holiday charging is implemented more widely.

Business owners and shoppers in Ilkley had complained that the changes to parking would drive visitors away when they were announced in June.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said: "Ilkley's a fantastic town and it's important to all of us that we work together in maintaining it as a real jewel in the crown of the district.

"We understand parking changes are always sensitive and recognise the strength of feeling in the town on the importance of being able to do those regular, local quick trips that the free hour helps facilitate."

He added: "We feel this is a good compromise that will provide over 150 spaces with a free hour within easy walking distance of the town centre."

The parking changes are set to be discussed by the council's executive committee at a meeting on 2 October.

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