Forwarded from Eric Leach is the following nonsense from Ealing council, not backed up by any empirical evidence or actual addressing the parking hotspots complained of. Dear Participant, Thank you for taking the time to share your views during the recent consultation on proposed changes to the Stop & Shop parking scheme in the London Borough of Ealing. We received 791 responses from residents, businesses, and stakeholders across the borough. Your feedback has been invaluable in helping us understand the full range of views, concerns, and suggestions regarding the proposals. Following careful consideration of all responses, the Council has decided to proceed with the Stop & Shop+ scheme, with adjustments to address key concerns raised during the consultation. Implementation is planned to begin in August 2025, with completion aimed of all works estimated to be in October 2025. The scheme will convert existing short-stay free parking bays into Stop & Shop+ bays, where users must register their stay via app, phone, or PayPoint to access 30 minutes of free parking, with the option to extend by payment. Rather than issuing individual replies to each submission, we’ve taken a more strategic and transparent approach. By reviewing all responses collectively, we identified 27 distinct themes raised across the consultation. Below you will see a comprehensive set of Question &Answers that address each of these points in full. This ensures that every concern is responded to clearly and consistently, and that all participants can see the full breadth of feedback and the Council’s considered response to each issue. We hope this document provides clarity on the rationale behind the scheme, the evidence that informed it, and the steps we’re taking to address concerns—particularly around digital access, vulnerable users, and business impact. Thank you again for engaging with us. Your input has helped shape how we move forward, and we remain committed to listening and improving how we manage parking across the borough. You can keep updated on the progress of the implementation of this work on our website at  Parking | Ealing Council. This summary has been prepared by Ealing Council’s Highways and Parking Team. For further information or queries, please contact: 📧 trafficnotices@ealing.gov.uk 🌐 www.ealing.gov.uk/parking 1. These proposals will negatively impact local businesses We understand the concern, particularly around the new requirement to register even for the free 30-minute period. However, kerbside activity studies show that chronic overstaying—up to 800% in some locations—is currently limiting customer access to parking. By requiring registration, the Council can enforce time limits and improve turnover, ensuring more customers can access shops throughout the day. This supports high street vitality and aligns with the Council’s economic development goals. Shape 2. These proposals are not considerate of disabled, elderly and/or vulnerable motor vehicle users Accessibility is a priority. While registration is now required for the free period, we have introduced non-digital alternatives including a dedicated phone line and 197 PayPoints across the borough. Blue Badge holders are fully exempt from registration and time limits. A grace period post-launch and ongoing monitoring will ensure that vulnerable users are supported and not disadvantaged. Shape 3. Stop and Shop+ parking spaces are discriminatory and exclude those who are not IT literate and/or have no access to digital devices/services We acknowledge that digital exclusion is a valid concern. To address this, the scheme includes three registration options: via smartphone app, telephone call, or PayPoint terminal. No smartphone, internet access, or bank account is required. These inclusive measures were developed in response to the Equality Impact Assessment and ensure compliance with the Public Sector Equality Duty. Shape 4. The current parking system works well and should not be changed While the previous system did not require registration, it also lacked enforceability. Kerbside studies show non-compliance rates of up to 65%, with many vehicles overstaying posted limits. The new system introduces consistency, fairness, and enforceability, replacing a patchwork of rules with a single, borough-wide standard that better supports bay turnover. Shape 5. There was a lack of meaningful consultation in relation to Stop and Shop+ parking proposals The consultation met all statutory requirements and ran for 21 days. It received 791 valid responses, a higher-than-average rate for parking consultations. Geographic analysis shows concentrated responses from areas with the highest density of affected bays. Business representatives were also engaged directly. The Council remains committed to ongoing dialogue. 6. PaybyPhone services are inconvenient and unreliable for users We understand concerns about PayByPhone reliability. That’s why we’ve provided two alternative methods: a dedicated phone line and 197 PayPoints. These ensure that users can register their free 30 minutes without needing an app or internet. We are also working with providers to ensure system reliability and user support. image.png 7. These proposals will negatively impact parking availability in the area On the contrary, the scheme is designed to improve availability by reducing long-term overstays. Requiring registration for the free period allows for effective enforcement, ensuring that bays are used for short visits and are more frequently available to other users. 8. 30 minutes is not enough time to carry out essential tasks in the area The 30-minute free period is intended for quick errands, which make up a large portion of visits. For longer stays, users can extend their time at standard rates. Requiring registration helps distinguish between short stops and longer visits, ensuring fair use of bays. 9. These proposals are a revenue generating scheme for Ealing Council Revenue generation is not the primary goal. The projected income of £305k represents just 0.8% of the Council’s parking budget. The main objectives are improved bay management, support for local businesses, and environmental benefits. Any revenue is reinvested into transport and public realm improvements. 10. 30 minutes is not enough time for vital leisure/social activities We recognise that social visits may require more time. The scheme allows users to pay for additional time beyond the free 30 minutes. Requiring registration ensures that the free period is used fairly and supports turnover in high-demand areas. 11. Stop and Shop+ parking spaces are not entirely free due to a 20p first-time registration charge The 20p fee is a one-time charge by the service provider for first-time registration. After that, registering for the free 30 minutes is completely free. The Council is exploring ways to waive or subsidise this fee for those who may find it a barrier. 12. Suggestions concerning the proposals We welcome all suggestions and have incorporated many into the scheme, including non-digital access options, grace periods, and monitoring impacts on vulnerable users. We remain open to further feedback as the scheme is implemented. 13. These proposals are not supported by meaningful evidence or data analysis The scheme is based on kerbside activity studies at 19 locations, which revealed widespread misuse and overstay. Without registration, enforcement is not possible. The data clearly supports the need for change and aligns with strategic objectives. 14. General Opposition to the Stop and Shop+ parking proposals We acknowledge general opposition, but the evidence shows that the current system is not working. The new scheme is more equitable, enforceable, and consistent, with safeguards in place for vulnerable users and those without digital access. 15. Stop and Shop+ parking should have a minimum of 1-hour free parking Extending the free period would undermine turnover goals and perpetuate the mismatch between stay lengths and bay availability. The 30-minute model balances access with enforcement and is consistent across the borough. 16. These proposals discriminate against low-income households who cannot afford paid-for-parking The scheme provides 30 minutes of free parking to everyone, regardless of income. No smartphone or payment method is required to access this. The aim is to reduce the need for paid long-term parking in high-demand areas, not to penalise low-income users. 17. Questions concerning the proposals We are happy to answer all questions. Full details are available on the Council’s website, and we are committed to ongoing engagement as the scheme is implemented. 18. These proposals will not be beneficial to the Council’s environmental goals The scheme supports environmental goals by reducing circling for parking, encouraging shorter car trips, and promoting active travel. It aligns with Ealing’s Climate Strategy and the 15-minute neighbourhood concept. 19. These proposals are not considerate of visitors and/or carers in the area Carers and visitors can still use the 30-minute free period and extend their stay if needed. The Council is reviewing options for special permits or exemptions for registered carers to ensure flexibility. 20. Concerns over data-retention policies of PaybyPhone parking services PayByPhone is fully GDPR-compliant, and data is only retained for operational and legal purposes. The Council is happy to provide further information on their data policies to reassure users. 21. These proposals will increase motor vehicle traffic and pollution in the area The scheme is designed to reduce circling for parking, which is a major contributor to local emissions. Improved turnover and active travel promotion will help reduce pollution and support sustainability goals. 22. Comments that do not concern the proposal in question These have been noted but are outside the scope of this consultation. We appreciate all feedback and will direct unrelated concerns to the appropriate teams. 23. These proposals will negatively impact motor vehicle journey lengths in the area The scheme is unlikely to increase journey lengths. In fact, by improving bay availability, it may reduce time spent searching for parking, thereby shortening overall trips. 24. These proposals will improve active travel and community spaces in the area We agree. By encouraging short stays and reducing car dependency, the scheme supports modal shift and the creation of more liveable neighbourhoods. 25. These proposals will negatively impact road safety for pedestrians in the area There is no change to kerb layout or pedestrian infrastructure. By reducing illegal parking and improving enforcement, the scheme may actually enhance pedestrian safety. 26. These proposals will help reduce car dependencies for short journeys in the area Yes—this is one of the scheme’s goals. By limiting long stays and encouraging turnover, we support walking, cycling, and public transport for short trips. 27. These proposals will improve motor vehicle turnover rates in parking bays Exactly. Requiring registration—even for free time—enables enforcement and ensures higher turnover, which benefits both businesses and residents. DO NOT REPLY TO THIS EMAIL. IF YOU WISH TO REPLY THEN PLEASE CONTACT trafficnotices@ealing.gov.uk

Entire Thread

Topic	Date Posted	Posted By
Stop & Shop+	12/08/25 22:17:00	Eric Alan Leach
Re:Stop & Shop+	13/08/25 08:44:00	Peter Yale
Re:Stop & Shop+	13/08/25 10:03:00	Paul James
Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	13/08/25 10:39:00	N V Brooks
Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	13/08/25 10:53:00	Paul James
Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	13/08/25 11:30:00	N V Brooks
Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	13/08/25 11:54:00	Peter Yale
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 04:22:00	Ben Owen
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 07:18:00	N V Brooks
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 07:57:00	Ben Owen
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 07:58:00	Simon Hayes
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 08:22:00	Ben Owen
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 08:19:00	N V Brooks
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 08:39:00	Ben Owen
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 09:12:00	N V Brooks
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 10:04:00	Peter Evans
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 10:32:00	N V Brooks
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 10:44:00	Paul James
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 10:52:00	Peter Yale
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 10:59:00	Rosco White
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 11:27:00	N V Brooks
Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 13:36:00	Mike Paterson
Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 14:19:00	Paul James
Re:Stop & Shop+	14/08/25 17:36:00	Elizabeth Price
Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	15/08/25 08:45:00	Raymond Havelock
Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	15/08/25 12:34:00	Rosco White
Re:Stop & Shop+	15/08/25 14:23:00	Susan Kelly
Re:Stop & Shop+	15/08/25 15:39:00	Paul James
Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	15/08/25 16:50:00	Simon Hayes
Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	29/08/25 18:27:00	Simon Hayes
Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	30/08/25 00:18:00	Eric Alan Leach
Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Stop & Shop+	30/08/25 09:51:00	Susan Kelly

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