In the news: Basildon Council Leader seeks support from town council chairs on parking concerns
The Leader of Basildon Council, Cllr Gavin Callaghan has written to the Chairs of both Billericay and Wickford town councils to have a meeting on the council's proposals to introduce evening and weekend charges in council-owned car parks.
These proposals aim to better meet local parking demands and will affect car parks at Billericay High Street, Billericay Rashford Crescent, Billericay Lake Meadows, Wickford Main, Wickford Pool, and Wickford Ladygate.
In his letter, Cllr Callaghan says: "We appreciate that parking charges can be a sensitive issue. While some businesses welcome the introduction of these charges - recognising that free parking has been exploited by weekend commuters into London and football fans attending matches. We also understand concerns about the impact on local trade and the high street."
The council is committed to listening to the concerns of residents and local businesses and of its main priorities is to back Basildon businesses.
Cllr Callaghan adds that: "This year, we are facing a £2.9m saving requirement, following last year's record £6m in-year savings. These are incredibly difficult decisions, but they are necessary to protect vital frontline services while allowing us to prioritise key initiatives, such as investing £2m to reinstate weekly bin collections.
"I am sure we can find a legitimate and practical way of ensuring that local businesses continue to benefit while also addressing the financial pressures we face."
Anyone who wishes to comment on the proposed changes should send their views via e-mail to legal.admin@basildon.gov.uk by 27 March 2025.
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Published 14 March 2025