Winter free parking could be scrapped at some Newquay car parks

Four Cornwall Council car parks in Newquay could see charges introduced during the winter months.

The move is part of the council's efforts to reassess the management of its assets, including car parks.

A report submitted to the Economic Growth and Development Overview and Scrutiny Committee outlines proposals to transfer the car parks under lease to Corserv Solutions Ltd, an arms-length company owned by the council. It could mean the introduction of year-round charges at 16 car parks which are currently free during winter. Additionally, 12 car parks that are permanently free could also face new charges.

The Newquay car parks under consideration are Tregunnel Hill, Albany Road, Dane Road, and Watergate Bay.

The report highlights a trial at Towan Headland (Little Fistral) where ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras are in use as "a new model of managing some of its car parks" and supporting "the principle of decentralisation".

It describes the benefits of ANPR to customers and residents, stating that under normal operations Cornwall Council is not permitted to use ANPR for enforcement, however those managed by a private operator through a lease can use ANPR with the aim to reduce evasion of payment or overstaying parking, thus creating additional income and a turnover of spaces for other people looking to park and so increase potential footfall to local businesses.

Councillors will meet to discuss the report and proposals on Tuesday 10th December.