New parking plans for Oban

PARKING in Oban is to change and motorists are to get their say on the proposed alterations.

The changes were revealed at the Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area Committee meeting last Wednesday and will be advertised to the public in mid-July.

On-street parking proposals include introducing a 30-minute free period on George Street, Corran Esplanade, William Street, Queen’s Park Place and Argyll Square.

However, on-street parking charges will be introduced on Gallanach Road - from the sailing club to Brandy Rock - and Corran Esplanade - Glenrigh to the war memorial.

The off-street parking proposals will see Ganavan, Lochavullin and Atlantis Leisure Centre car parks charged all-year-round, with the first two hours free, from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm and from 1pm until 6pm on Sundays.

Councillor Roddy McCuish also pointed out there is free parking at Mossfield, which is not in the report. And when the new school is built, there will be up to 80 spaces available there.

A council officer told the meeting: ‘We have had workshops with elected members, invited comments and views from the public and we’re about to advertise them formally.

‘We will then bring them back to the area committee for fur- ther consultation once we have advertised.’

Councillor for Oban South and the Isles, Mr McCuish, said: ‘I am glad to see this coming forward.

‘The only thing I would suggest is we use that funding for extra amenity wardens. I would like them to start at around 2pm. The majority of offences start when the warden finishes – campervans coming in at 5pm to 6pm and leaving before 8am. ‘I think there’s an opportunity to look at our Millpark depot that burned down. It could be used to get some parking off the street.’

Councillor McCuish added: ‘The only solution for Oban is a multi-storey car park. It would cost maybe £ 5 million, but we would get our money back.’

Some concern was raised over the new £1 coins not being accepted by various parking meters in the town.

Councillor for Oban South and the Isles Jamie McGrigor said: ‘Is there any chance of the parking meters taking cards? It has become the modern way to do it.’

To which a council officer responded: ‘For the cards to work properly, we need a telephone wire or 3G or 4G.

‘ We are really keen to do that, but we are held back a little by technology.

‘The real issue is getting a signal. We have a trial taking place in Helensburgh.’