MSP condemns lack of impact survey ahead of charges coming in

Angus South MSP Graeme Dey has expressed disappointment and concern over Angus Council’s admission no economic impact assessment has been carried out into the planned introduction of parking charges.

Mr Dey said: “The reply from Angus Council confirms they actually have no idea whether, or to what extent, this move might prove damaging for high street businesses and, for that matter, their own income streams by virtue of shops possibly closing.

“I have repeatedly acknowledged the fantastic work done by Angus Council’s economic development in support of local business but here, potentially, we have the wider council taking a step that could undermine those efforts, without making any effort to determine what the real impact might be.

“It is deeply disappointing and concerning, although not altogether surprising to me, that no serious detailed consideration has been given to the possible knock on effects of this proposal.”

In their response to the MSP, who represents Monifieth, Kirriemuir, Carnoustie and Arbroath, the council sought to offer context to the likely impact by pointing to “information from other bodies involved in parking” such as the RAC and British Parking Association which indicates “no clear linkage between the provision of parking/charging for car parking and town centre prosperity”.

The authority also attempted to justify the move on the grounds that a previous survey of residents of the county indicated local people would favour the introduction of charges over cuts to other services.

Meanwhile, Dundee East MP Stewart Hosie has written to Angus Council chief executive Margo Williamson regarding the proposed charges.

The MP, who has Monifieth and Carnoustie in his constituency, raised concerns over small businesses and the high streets in the towns.