‘Good leadership means listening and responding’: Council makes U-turn on Banbury overnight parking charges

Cherwell District Council has confirmed it will not introduce overnight parking charges in Banbury, following a U-turn at Monday’s (October 19) full council meeting.

Last month, the district council published a public notice confirming its intention to increase parking charges and introduce overnight fees for the first time at nine car parks across the town.

The car parks included Upper Windsor Street, Compton Road, Spiceball Park, Calthorpe Street, Bolton Road, Cherwell Drive, North Bar and the east and west car parks on South Bar.

However, following significant backlash from residents and local business owners, the council initially put the proposed overnight charges on hold.

In a statement issued on October 9, the council said the changes had not been implemented while it carried out further engagement with businesses and residents. It also apologised for the confusion caused.

The statement said: “The proposed introduction of evening and overnight parking charges has not been implemented at this stage while the council carries out further engagement with local businesses and residents.

“We apologise for any confusion that has arisen during the implementation of this. Currently, no changes to the evening and overnight charges have been made.”

At Monday’s meeting, the Lib Dem-led authority agreed to rule out overnight parking charges in Banbury and Bicester.

Speaking afterwards Cllr Lesley McLean, leader of Cherwell District Council, said: “We have listened to businesses and residents, and we are clear that introducing overnight parking charges is not the right decision for Banbury and Bicester.

“We recognise the pressures facing local businesses, particularly those operating in the evening economy, and we want to encourage people into our town centres, not put additional barriers in their way.

“Good leadership means listening, responding and making decisions that are right for our communities.”

The council’s executive also confirmed it would carry out a strategic review of all parking charges, including engaging with residents, businesses and other stakeholders.

Cllr Rob Pattenden, portfolio holder for property and assets, added: “Ruling out overnight charges is another positive step in our wider ambition to help Banbury thrive.”