Parking clock charges suggested

The clocks would continue to be monitored by traffic wardens

Plans for paid parking in Guernsey should be scrapped and replaced with an annual charge for parking clocks, according to a States deputy.

Money raised by the introduction of parking charges in St Peter Port would be used to fund the island's buses.

Under current plans being considered - charging 15p an hour - about £300,000 would be raised.

But Deputy Barry Brehaut said charging island motorists an £8 annual fee for clocks would cover the funding.

Registered vehicles

The parking clocks, which are already used in the island, would continue to be monitored by traffic wardens.

Mr Brehaut said this system would have the added benefit of the States not having to pay for parking meters or staff to empty and maintain them. He has suggested a £5 charge for visitors.

The Environment Department has recently finished a tendering process for paid parking in St Peter Port, but has yet to make a final decision on how it would operate.

Minister David De Lisle said a scratch card system and pay and display are being considered.