Proposed changes to look at parking permit discounts

AN INCENTIVE scheme aimed at drivers of low emission cars could be tightened up in York as the city council looks to raise its threshold for parking discounts.

At present, residents are offered a reduced fee for household permits and season tickets if their vehicle emits low levels of carbon and air pollution, at a rate of 120g/km.

Were proposed changes to be agreed next week, this threshold could be almost halved to 75g/ km, making it much more difficult to be eligible for the half price discount.

The move, council members say, is aimed at encouraging more people to consider their environmental impact, and would bring the authority in line with government guidelines.

“Whilst air quality has improved in York over the last seven years, we know there is still more to be done,” said Coun Peter Dew, executive transport.

“Introducing these new changes will encourage residents and visitors to use vehicles which have a lower environmental impact.”

Coun Andrew Waller, executive member for environment, member for said: “By reviewing our parking criteria, we can encourage more people to use low emission vehicles and avoid vehicles that emit more pollution.”

The measures will be discussed on Thursday. If approved, they would come into effect from April, affecting 1,300 people.