Over 120 people attended the meeting held at Cavendish Rd School on Thursday October 21st to give their views on the proposed Residents’ Parking Scheme for West Didsbury. This will affect Burton Rd and its cul-de-sacs south of Lapwing Lane, part of Cavendish Rd and the cul-de-sacs up to Buxton Avenue, Arley, Tintern and Bottesford Avenues and Northen Grove.

David Bland, Major Projects Manager, Highway Services outlined the proposed scheme and the progress of the consultation so far. He and his colleagues were keen to gain as much information as possible from local people to contribute to phase two of the consultation which will happen in about three weeks.

Kevin Gray (local resident) described the many problems experienced by the residents of West Didsbury regarding parking. Fire engines and refuse lorries had difficulties with access and arguments had occurred between residents and visitors over inconsiderate parking. However, he was keen to find a solution which would suit people who both lived or worked in the area and hoped it might be possible to utilise the hospital car park, especially at the weekends.

Simon Conolly from Green’s restaurant spoke on behalf of the local businesses pointing out that any parking restrictions in the Burton Rd area would have a detrimental effect on what were already small businesses struggling in a recession. He also pointed out that the many houses in flats and multi-occupation led to more cars that could be accommodated in a parking scheme anyway.

Many comments from the floor agreed that the nature of the businesses in Burton Rd created the unique atmosphere of West Didsbury which its residents valued so much. The area had improved tremendously over the last ten years.

Some people were also concerned about the details of permits for visitors, carers etc. However, parking was a massive problem and there was a strong feeling that the hospital car park could be the answer.

Margaret Gardner, Acting Manager, Withington Community Hospital explained that anyone could park in the secure hospital carpark for £2 which was a reasonable fee and necessary to keep the carpark maintained. People suggested that this could be subsidised or more widely publicised.

Both Simon Connolly and Kevin Gray agreed that both residents and businesses should work together with the council to find the best solution for everyone. David Bland said that all comments and suggestions had been taken on board for the next consultation.