Gwenda Calls for Extension to Parking Consultation

Gwenda Thomas, AM for Neath, today requested an extension to the public consultation period on the introduction of car parking charges in Pontardawe.

Mrs Thomas said: “Given the importance of this issue it is vital that Neath Port Talbot Council hear the views of all the stakeholders who will be affected by the proposed changes. I do not feel that a three week period over the Christmas holidays is sufficient for a meaningful consultation.”

Neath Port Talbot Council wants to impose parking charges in Pontardawe for the first time as part of a review of Council run car parks. The public consultation into the proposals is currently set to run until 7th Jan.

Mrs Thomas said: “This is clearly a very controversial proposal. The businesses, residents and shoppers in Pontardawe must be given ample opportunity to air their views and put forward potential alternatives.”

“Although shops in the town centre are currently displaying posters about the issue the recent severe weather has kept many residents indoors. This means that many people have yet to hear about the Council’s proposal and are unaware of the short period of time they have to respond.”

“For these reasons I hope Mr Steve Philips, the Chief Executive of the Council, will listen to this request. In the meantime I would encourage all those who have yet to do so to contact both the Council and myself to let us know their views on the subject.”