Anger over new parking scheme

Charges vary depending on the location of the space

A new parking scheme has caused anger and confusion among drivers in Milton Keynes.

Motorists are being charged to park in thousands of spaces which had previously been free.

Drivers say the rules are confusing and have not been made clear.

There have also been delays issuing permits, installing meters and updating signs.

The council has admitted the scheme, designed to improve parking in the city centre, was not completely ready.

Drivers say signs are confusing

A premium rate of 80p an hour has been introduced at 800 bays near the shopping centre.

Standard rate charges of 20p an hour apply at another 5,000 spaces.

Some motorists who have paid £180 for parking permits say they are not convinced the permits will secure spaces close enough to work.

Francine Maskel, who is still waiting for her permit to arrive, is collecting signatures for a petition against the scheme to present to the council.

Other motorists have said they had not been told about different zones and had to rely on guesswork when deciding where to park.

'Confusion' expected

Transport committee chairman Liberal Democrat councillor Graham Mabbutt admitted the new system was confusing some motorists.

"There is bound to be confusion when anything new is introduced.

"Give it a few days, let it get bedded in and people will work out exactly where they can park.

"I don't think there will be any confusion after the first few days."