Green parking permits in pipeline

Proposals include introducing residents' parking permits

Drivers of environmentally friendly vehicles could be given permits to park in a Kent town centre in an effort to encourage green travel.

The plan is part of a package of proposals in Swanley to regulate parking by commuters.

Sevenoaks District Council said it wanted to make more spaces available to people who shop or work in Swanley.

Some 1,500 homes and businesses are being sent letters asking them to comment on the proposals.

Disabled drivers

The consultation, which runs until 7 September, follows other ask-the-people exercises which took place in August 2006 and March 2007.

The draft proposals also include restricting parking in some residential areas by issuing permits, providing additional bays for disabled drivers and school buses and additional pay and display areas.

Affected places are the High Firs estate and Azalea Drive, Kingswood Avenue and St George's Road areas.

"We have listened to comments and concerns made by Swanley residents about our original proposals and made changes, where possible, to accommodate their wishes," said Councillor Gary Williamson.