WINSFORD residents are being urged to give their views as the council has announced it is considering imposing parking charges in the town.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) is developing a parking strategy for the borough and is launching a public consultation on the initial recommendations made by independent consultants.

The strategy is looking at creating a ‘fair and consistent’ parking service across the borough with the council highlighting that some areas have parking charges and others, like Winsford, do not.

Cllr Karen Shore, cabinet member for environment, said: “There is an imbalance at the moment, as residents and businesses in some areas are paying for parking and others are not.

“It is important to stress that at this stage we are only consulting on the proposals made by the independent consultants and no decisions have been made.

“They include some better alternatives to current parking concessions that will appeal to a wider range of motorists and help to cut congestion, while continuing to support businesses.

“We are seeking the views of all interested parties and we will be having conversations with groups representing the disabled to obtain their views on proposals to charge Blue Badge holders for parking which has been introduced in other areas across the country.

“I hope as many people as possible get involved in this consultation and share their views and ideas.”

The public consultation started on Friday, November 25 and will take place over 12 weeks.

A drop-in session for Winsford residents to give their views will be held on Thursday, January 19,from 3pm to 7pm at Winsford Lifestyle Centre in The Drumber.

Winsford councillor, Mike Kennedy, said he will do his utmost to stop parking charges being enforced in the town.

Cllr Kennedy said: “I recognise that Cheshire West and Chester Council have had to make £57 million of budget savings due Conservative massive cuts to local authorities, however I would advise against introducing even nominal parking charges in Winsford.

“Winsford, unlike Chester and some areas such as Northwich, has limited scope for its residents to enjoy and utilise major shopping or leisure facilities. How can the town’s residents be expected to pay for visiting services that at the moment they just do not have?

Will we not be just influencing them to go elsewhere with better facilities?

“I have told many residents there will be no parking charges in Winsford and I will do my utmost as a Dene Ward town councillor not to be telling untruths, my word is usually my bond.”