Council chiefs have reversed their policy on seafront parking charges.
Brighton and Hove City Council has reached an agreement with traders in Madeira Drive and hoteliers in the New Steine to introduce new tariffs in the areas.
The decision marks a major victory for The Argus Park the Charges campaign.
In April 1, the council doubled summer parking charges on the seafront, increasing the top rate to £20 for 11 hours’ parking – and demanded that motorists paid for it in coins.
Traders and residents backed the Argus campaign saying the move was driving small firms out of business.
The Argus believes the new tariffs under discussion include dropping the eight-hour tariff altogether, reducing the 11-hour tariff from £20 to £15 and reducing the four-hour tariff from £15 to £10.
Greg Harman, owner of the Madeira Cafe, praised the Argus campaign but said the battle was not over.
'Right direction'
He said: “I think the council should go further and bring back the £10 all-day charge. This is a move in the right direction but why stop there, it worked perfectly well before the changes.”
Councillor Ian Davey, chair of Transport Committee, said: “I am really pleased that we have been able to work constructively with the seafront traders in Madeira Drive and hoteliers in the New Steine to reach a solution that helps meet their concerns about parking for visitors to the area.
“This continues the vital work to make the seafront more attractive to tourists, tackle congestion and air pollution in the city centre. There are, of course, multi-storey car parks along with an excellent public transport system which provide for the growing number of visitors to the city.
“These changes will now go to the transport committee on January 15 for consideration. If agreed the changes could be in place by April.”
'Refreshing'
Brighton Sea Life centre general manager Max Leviston said The Madeira Drive and Marine Parade Traders’ Association is very pleased with the progress that is being made with regards to reducing parking charges.
He said: “It is really refreshing to hear that the parking strategy team, Cllr Davey and Cllr Bowden, have not only listened but also compromised following our significant efforts, in times that we know have significant austerity measures in place.”
Sharon Callaghan of the Brighton and Hove Hoteliers Association added that hotels and guesthouses across the city welcome the council’s proposed reduced parking rates.
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