Residents are worried about new parking fees at Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park, fearing it may limit access for families and visitors
Redcar: The council’s plan to charge for parking at Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park has stirred up quite a bit of worry among locals. They’re not too happy about the idea of paying to park in a place they love.
So, the council wants to introduce a £1 fee for all-day parking, which is part of a bigger plan to adjust charges for various services in 2025/26. They think this new parking model will help manage costs better, especially in tourist spots.
Flatts Lane is a popular spot for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking to enjoy some fresh air. Councillor David Taylor, who represents Eston ward, called it a “cherished community asset.” He’s worried that charging for parking could push people away and lead to unsafe parking on nearby streets.
At a recent council meeting, he asked them to hit pause on this decision. Deputy leader Carrie Richardson mentioned that they need the income from parking fees to keep services running smoothly. She believes that £1 for a whole day is pretty reasonable compared to other places.
However, Cllr Taylor pointed out that the expected income from this plan might not be worth the hassle. He thinks it could bring in only about £30,000 to £35,000 a year, which isn’t a huge amount when you consider the costs of implementing the charges.
There’s a history of the council backing down on parking fees after public pushback. Just a couple of years ago, they scrapped similar plans after hearing from upset residents and local politicians. It seems like they’re in a tough spot, trying to balance finances while keeping the community happy.
