Council leader statement on parking in Rossendale

There has been a few concerns raised about parking in the borough over recent weeks.

Responding to the concerns, Council leader Alyson Barnes said:

“I fully understand concerns over parking in Rawtenstall and also the wider borough. Good availability of parking spaces is one of the key reasons people decide to come to a place and spend money and time in a centre.

“That is why as part of our preparations for Spinning Point we will be developing a broader parking strategy. We will be putting together a working group with key people such as members of the Chamber of Trade as the Council cannot solve the parking problem on its own and needs businesses to help shape it.

“The group will support a full and in depth look at the issues and best way forward so we can create proposals that serve the needs of Rawtenstall . We are seeing those efforts of working together bearing fruit in Rawtenstall already.

“Our economic development strategy supports our towns having different needs, and we will also continue to raise the need to improve public transport throughout the borough as well.

“What I can absolutely commit to is that we will never bring in parking charges to our car parks. We pledge that shoppers can enjoy free parking on those owned by us. Of course, private car parks and on street parking are not in our control. As a Council we will voice our opposition to any proposals to increase on street parking in our area.”