Assembly votes to review car parking charges

The Stormont Assembly voted a review of the North’s on-street car parking charges. The move has been welcomed by the Northern Ireland Retail Traders Association.

Its chief executive, Glyn Roberts, said the association was looking forward to contributing to the review to be set up by the Minister for Infrastructure, Chris Hazzard. Mr Roberts added: “It is absolutely vital that we make significant changes to car parking charges and fines to support the growth of our town centres and high streets” “NIIRTA has called upon the Minister for Infrastructure to devolve on street car parking to the 11 councils, giving them a greater role in shaping their town centres and high streets.

“This will be a central part of our submission to the Review “This review should also include a fairer way to enforce Belfast Bus Lanes regulations, ensuring a yellow card system is introduced for first time offenders” Mr Roberts concluded: “We need a level playing field for shoppers who use their car, public transport, or who walk or cycle to our town and city centres”