The Parish Council want to bring local residents up to speed about the processes for consultation on the extension of controlled parking in the village.
The process adopted by Shepway District Council combines informal and formal/statutory elements in order to try to maximise residents’ involvement. It is important to remember that it is the District Council that has the decision making role. So whilst the Parish Council have an obvious interest and a degree of influence, it is most important that if residents have comments, support or concerns they must direct them to Shepway and abide by Shepway’s processes.
Shepway are just about to start informal consultations in Sandgate. They do not, therefore, feel further meetings with separate resident groups will be beneficial at this stage. The informal consultations will seek the views of all residents and businesses in the roads that will be affected. Shepway will analyse the individual responses and make recommendations to their Cabinet Member, Councillor Mrs Ann Berry, who will decide whether or not to proceed with the scheme. Shepway have indicated that they will, of course, be happy to meet and discuss the outcome of the consultation at that stage.
It should also be noted that a formal statutory consultation will follow, if it is decided to proceed with the scheme. Residents and businesses will have another opportunity to comment or make representations on the detailed design of the scheme. People from outside the affected area will also be able to comment or object to the proposals during this formal consultation.
Shepway contact : Frederick Miller – Transportation Manager –frederick.miller@shepway.gov.uk