New parking charges are set to come into force next week across the southeast with drivers warned to expect hefty fines for breaking the rules.
From September 2 Medway Council will start charging drivers at its iconic nature parks situated within the region.
The charges will be introduced at Capstone and Riverside Country Parks with the funds used for potential improvements around Medway.
This includes highways maintenance and investment in Medway Council’s parks and greenspaces.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers can purchase annual ticket for £60
GETTYThe new fee will be for all-day parking at both country parks and will be £2.50 for cars and £9 for coaches, but blue badge holders can continue to park for free.
However, drivers can purchase an annual Country Parks car park season ticket which will be valid at any car park at all country parks.
It costs £60, equating to just 17p per day and can be an ideal solution for regular users of the parks.
The charges were agreed earlier this year by Medway Council’s Cabinet and aims to bring Medway in line with the approach taken by other authorities.
The plan to charge for parking in country parks will mean the council can generate a valuable income stream to help address budget challenges.
Visitors will be able to pay by using cash, card, contactless, or the RingGo parking app on site.
Councillor Simon Curry said: “Medway’s Country Parks are an amazing asset, and these new charges will help maintain these fantastic spaces for everyone – whether for our own Medway residents or visitors from further afield.
“Charging for parking is common practice at country parks around Kent and the rest of the country and the new fees will reflect the value we place on our parks here in Medway.”
But the upcoming charges have been met with fury by drivers and residents who fear the new charges will make visiting the parks unaffordable.
One person shared on social media: “I feel so sorry for those who use these places, like I did for an affordable day out when times are hard and dog walkers, those who just fancy a picturesque stroll.
“After all so much is being taken away (heating payment) some people may not be able to afford to park to visit these places.
“Also, some may have to choose between paying for parking or visiting the cafe and then that affects a small business too. Such a shame to put it politely.”
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Drivers to be charged £2.50
MEDWAY COUNCIL
Someone else warned that they have “no choice” but to buy the annual ticket adding that it is a “very short sighted” move by the council.
“A lot of older people walk their dogs and chat to other people, which is good for mental health and mobility. Some of these people will now feel isolated affecting their mental health and their mobility, ultimately costing the NHS in the long run,” the person shared.
