Council move for powers to levy charge on workers’ cars

COUNCIL bosses are seeking permission from the Scottish Government to charge workers who want to park their cars in Glasgow.

Members of the city administration committee will ask Holyrood to introduce a bill that would allow the Glasgow City Council to introduce a workplace parking levy, despite concerns business owners could be forced to relocate.

Speaking at yesterday’s meeting, Councillor Anna Richardson said: “There needs to be a change in legislation. COSLA have already agreed to support this motion.

“There are merits to this proposal. We are only asking for approval to ask the Scottish Government for the power to introduce a workplace parking levy.”

Councillor Kyle Thornton asked: “What consultation has taken place with business, many who would see a parking levy a burden and discourage them from investing in the city?”

Ms Richardson responded: “I am in regular contact with the Federation of Small Businesses to discuss this idea.

“Through them we will be able to hear the viewpoints of local business people. Nottingham have introduced a parking levy.

“There was anxiety when the proposal was first introduced but it has actually made the city more successful.”

Mr Thornton replied: “Several employers left Nottingham for other cities. My concern is people in Glasgow will do the same and relocate in Paisley or Motherwell.”

Councillor Matt Kerr said: “I disagree. I think we should have the power to do this. I believe the pull factors outweigh the push factors.”

Councillor Martha Wardrop added: “I have advocated for this over many months.”

Following the discussion the majority of councillors agreed to ask the Scottish Government for the power to deliver a workplace parking levy across the city.

Council leader Susan Aitken stressed this was not a proposal: “This is about whether or not we should be asking the Scottish Government to introduce a bill.”