We have a significant development in that we have now heard from both ward councillors of their opposition to the imposition of a CPZ in Underhill South.
Cllr Roberts has said:
"I have come across no local resident in favour of the proposed CPZ and all against the proposal when directly asked."
Cllr Beg has said:
"I want to assure you that I am in agreement with you (and others) and support Underhill residents in that this CPZ is not needed and have been in discussions with Highways regarding this and will continue to oppose this."
Our MP Dan Tomlinson opposed the CPZ proposal early on:
"I am very much aware of the strength of feeling from residents... I am opposed to the introduction of this CPZ."
The original consultation letter for the Underhill South CPZ consultation claimed that "complaints and petitions [were] received from Ward Members, residents and businesses". This begs the questions: exactly which Ward Members were petitioning officers?
Whilst this is a positive development, we can't be complacent. There is still a risk that officers will push for an experimental zone. We don't know of any experimental controlled parking zones that haven't ended up permanent so we must oppose this.
85% of Underhill South residents oppose the CPZ proposal and more than 70% have no parking problems.