Councillors are backing calls for a Newquay parking review following fears residential streets will become even more clogged up with visitors’ cars this summer.

Cornwall Councillors Kevin Towill, Louis Gardner and Olly Monk are supporting the Residents Parking for Newquay Group’s plea for public consultation so that residents-only parking can be in place as soon as possible.

Local residents, particularly those who live in streets next to the town centre, are calling for ‘residents-only zones’ to be put in place. 

A full review of on-street parking in Newquay was last carried out in 2017 and at the time that resulted in the idea of residents-only parking being rejected. 

Cllr Gardner said: “When we did the last parking review, all zones who were consulted voted to reject residents-only parking due to the costs and limitations of the scheme and the potential effect on town centre businesses. 

“Cornwall Council did a trial of residents’ parking on one street only, Ennors Road, during the last administration and that scheme has been fraught with issues. 

“However, both the last consultation and the implementation of the Ennors Road trial were ill-thought-out and poorly planned and executed. Much has changed since 2017 and I believe the time is right to open the conversation again. 

“Whatever the outcome of the consultation, the discussion must be led by local residents and businesses and we must do what is right for the town.”

Cllr Towill said: “The last review was a disaster. The zones did not make sense and residents felt that they would have to pay for a permit and still not to be able to park near their home.

“I think the time is right to reopen this and look to see how others manage their schemes and properly explore what would work locally.

Cllr Monk said: “We need a fresh town-wide parking review which can look at areas such as Tregunnell Hill. 

“Residents’ parking will be at the top of the agenda for many people whilst many businesses will want to ensure adequate parking in areas like Chester Road or the boating lake.”