Car Park Revenues Drive Projects Forward

Some of the money generated by introducing charges at Castle Road car park could help support community projects throughout the district.

The charges in Castle Road, Sandgate, which at present look to average out at over £20,000, are at least proving to be substantially more than the £1800 previously paid annually to Shepway District Council by Sandgate Parish Council to keep the car park free of charge.

Robert Bliss, Leader of the Council said: "The figures so far have been positive. Our projected income from the time the parking charges were introduced to the end of the financial year was £8300 and so far we have taken almost £6000. Obviously we recognise that during these winter months, the amount taken will be lower than in warmer times. We are expecting our income to go up as the car park is used more from early spring and summer when the weather starts improving. We are confident that the figures will continue to be good. "

"The introduction of these car parking charges brings Sandgate in line with other car parks across the district where there has always been charges. It is expected that the revenue from this particular car park, which is already significantly higher than the amount previously paid yearly by Sandgate Parish Council, will be put towards funding of future community based projects that will benefit the whole of the District."