Parking charge plans set to be scrapped in Llanfair

Powys County Council is set to ditch plans to introduce charges in nine car parks across the county because the move would only save £655 a year – and that’s good news for Llanfair.

In December 2016, the council made a traffic regulation order to implement charges within nine currently free car parks when it it was proposed that some of the car parks would be pay and display while others would be for residents only.

The plan included car parks for pay and display at Llanfair, Llandrindod Wells, Talgarth, Station Yard, Sennybridge, and  Presteigne with permit holder car parks to be introduced at Knighton, Llandrindod, Llanidloes and Brecon.

A new report has been made, which says that the decision would have little financial benefit. The report says:"Based upon the income estimation of £29,406 from the nine car parks and an additional £2,275 from income from Penalty Charge notices, the total predicted income of the changes is £31,681.

"Taking into account the apportioned annual enforcement costs which total £31,026, the net income would amount to only £655.

"This does not take into account any initial capital outlay to procure and install pay and display machines and any necessary signage.

"Given that the net income prediction of implementing the charges amounts to only £655 per year it is not considered appropriate to pursue the planned introduction of the Traffic Order and subsequent charges there on.

"It is therefore proposed not to progress the decision made by Cabinet on the December 20, 2016.

Under delegated powers, cabinet member for highways Councillor Liam Fitzpatrick will make a decision on November 14.