14/11/2024: Breckland Council Car Park Consultation becomes more accessible

Breckland Council has announced that its ongoing public consultation on the future of town centre car parking in the district has been made more accessible. While completing the consultation online at breckland.gov.uk/carparks remains the easiest and most accessible way, residents, local businesses, and other stakeholders can now collect and return paper consultation responses at their local libraries in Attleborough, Dereham, Swaffham, Thetford, and Watton. 

The consultation addresses proposals on the long-term sustainability of Breckland's parking facilities.  It invites public feedback on a range of ideas, such as offering free periods at designated car parks in each town, followed by modest charges, and implementing potential permit options for residents, businesses, and volunteers. 

Councillor Paul Hewett, Breckland Council's Executive Member for Property and Procurement, commented: 

"We recognise that introducing a new parking system is a considerable change, and we are committed to making this consultation process as transparent and accessible as possible. 

"The adjustments made to improve accessibility, including the option to participate via local libraries, reflect our commitment to ensure everyone can have their say. We want to hear your views so we can design a sustainable parking system that works for everyone.

"In talking to people at consultation engagement events so far there is an understanding of our budget pressures, the reasons why we are exploring the solutions we've put forward and how important it is that the public have their say in shaping that solution going forward."

The consultation launched on 4 November and will end on 15 December, with an online questionnaire available at breckland.gov.uk/carparks. In addition, public engagement events have been organised with all-day events in Swaffham and Attleborough having already taken place on 11 and 12 November, offering residents the chance to provide input and get answers to their questions. Upcoming events include: 

Thetford Library - Tuesday, 19 November 

Dereham Library - Thursday, 21 November 

Adcocks, Watton - Wednesday, 27 November 

Residents and businesses are encouraged to complete the online questionnaire, attend an engagement event, or now, with the added convenience, submit their feedback by leaving their form in the appropriate collection box at their local library. Stay updated on the consultation's progress by visiting Breckland Council's website or following the Council's social media channels.