Council reveals plan for fewer cars in city centre

The strategy is aimed at cutting the number of vehicles coming into the city

A long-term strategy to reduce the number of cars able to park in Liverpool city-centre has been revealed.

The plans involve cutting the number of vehicles coming into the city by reducing the car parks and parking spaces available.

The ultimate aim is to cut congestion, improve air quality and make moving around the city easier for pedestrians and cyclists, to help create a "well-connected, sustainable and accessible city".

The strategy was discussed at Liverpool City Council's latest cabinet meeting.

However, the report acknowledged the proposals could only happen if reduction in parking was matched with improvements in services on buses and trains.

Proposals also include car parks located on the outskirts of the city featuring onward links to the city centre by public transport.

Liverpool's Liberal Democrat leader Carl Cashman said the council "can't afford to get this wrong" and if its does it risks losing trust as well as scaring off visitors and damaging the local economy.

Amanda Bower said public transport was not reliable

People in Liverpool city centre have been sharing their thoughts on the proposals.

Amanda Bower, who was in the city's Baltic Triangle area for shoe repairs, said public transport was not her first choice due to its unreliability.

"I sometimes use the train or the bus - but to be honest when I've got the kids with me I'll jump in the car and park in the city centre - it's so convenient for all the shops," she said.

"If public transport was more reliable I might use it more often but on days like today as well when I'm just popping in and can park for free on street it's just so easy."

Eddie Gore said he wants to see more free or cheap parking

TikTok content creator Eddie Gore, who comes to Liverpool for work every other week, said he had just been issued a parking ticket but drives because it is much more convenient.

He said: "I'd want more parking spaces and make them free or cheap - but I suppose that's the exact opposite of what the council wants to do."

Suzanne Holyde said she loves that Liverpool is a "walkable city"

Suzanne Holyde, originally from California, said she loves the fact Liverpool is a "walkable city".

She said she does not drive and uses public transport and thinks the buses are great.

However, she said they do not necessarily take people to the places they need to be and understands why people drive.

"I do feel sorry for businesses who may lose out on parking spaces," she said.