ARGYLL and Bute Council looks unlikely to introduce a workplace parking levy on its staff, according to a new report.
The Transport Scotland Act 2019, implemented by the Scottish Government, gave councils powers to charge staff for parking at their workplace.
But a document prepared for Argyll and Bute’s environment, development and infrastructure committee on the implications of the Act suggests that such a measure will not be introduced in the area any time soon – if at all.
The report says that improvements would need to be made to public transport in the area if a levy were introduced, and warns that any such move could also lead to more cars being parked on public roads.
The committee considered the subject at a meeting on Thursday, March 5.
Kirsty Flanagan, executive director with responsibility for roads and infrastructure services, said in the report: “The provisions [of the Act] provide discretionary powers for local authorities to establish a Workplace Parking Levy (WPL) scheme, a devolved revenue-raising measure which promotes local decision making and allows councils to implement initiatives that best work with the specific considerations of their area.
“Such measures have the potential to encourage modal shift towards public and sustainable transport and to enhance transport infrastructure and services in local areas, to the benefit of those who do not primarily travel by car.
“In drafting these amendments, the Scottish Government has taken an approach to ensure that WPLs are viewed in a strategic local context and in alignment with other transport initiatives.
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“This is an initiative which would need a policy position establishing. At the time of writing this report officers would not recommend introducing a WPL where there is a fragile economy and depopulation issues.
“This provision will be more effective in urban areas, particularly large towns and cities.
“It may not be effective within Argyll and Bute Council are unless improvements are made to transport infrastructure, specifically public transport provision, to allow the modal shift to be made from cars to other travel types.
“Improvements to the cycle’s network may also be worth considering in this context.
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“The introduction of WPL may, in some cases, lead to displacement of vehicles on to public roads if parking costs are passed on to staff.”
The report also says that assessments would need to be carried out in order for any penalty charge notices for pavement parking to be implemented.
Ms Flanagan added: “Pavement parking (footways and footpaths) is an area which would require a policy position for Argyll and Bute, in terms of what level of enforcement and where enforcement would be carried out.
“It is understood there will be minimum footway widths to be maintained (probably 1.5m) which won’t leave many places within Argyll and Bute where we could have footway or partial footway parking.
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“There would be a need for an assessment to be carried out in local areas where we are aware that the prohibition may cause issues.
“The council would have to promote orders, provide signing and lining; these may become cost pressures. Penalty charge notices would be issued for any contraventions.
“This is likely to be subject to regulation by Scottish ministers for both footway assessment and the form of exemption orders.”
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