Charges planned for George Park 'n' Ride

HUGE changes could be implemented at the George Park and Ride. Plymouth City Council are advertising proposals to introduce long-stay charges at the George Park and Ride to help ensure more spaces are available for bus passengers.

- By ABIGAIL NICHOLSON

The council said passengers sometimes complain that they are unable to find a space and surveys indicate that a number of drivers use the site as a car park, rather than to park and ride.

Occupancy surveys carried out over a seven-day period between November and December showed that the five-day average occupancy for the site is 96% and the seven-day average occupancy is 73%, meaning the car park is operating close to capacity, particularly during the week.

However, this demand is not reflected in bus user numbers, suggesting a proportion of spaces are being used by commuters taking advantage of the free parking.

To "better manage the site" and help ensure bus passengers can park and ride, the council are proposing to introduce charges for all vehicles parking for five hours or longer. Under the proposals, there will be a £3.50 charge per day for anyone parking for five hours or longer. This would apply seven days a week (including bank holidays) to all users, including blue badge holders, electric vehicles and motorbikes.