North Tyneside Proposes Changes to Grass Verges for Parking

Proposed changes to grass verges in North Tyneside aim to address parking issues while preserving local aesthetics. A council report indicates that alterations to these areas must receive majority support from residents before implementation can proceed. This recommendation follows a thorough examination by a task group, which convened in March 2023 to assess the impact of potential modifications on both parking and council assets.

The task group found that making grass verges more accommodating for vehicles is feasible. They proposed using materials such as plastic and concrete, which can support some vegetation. However, these solutions are best suited for areas with less frequent parking. According to the report, costs for treating small sections of grass verges with concrete or plastic range from £8,886 to £5,614, with an additional £2,000 required if dropped kerbs are needed.

Support from the community is crucial. During a recent meeting of North Tyneside Council’s Green sub-committee, Coun Ian Grayson, chair of the task group, emphasized the importance of local consensus. He stated, “If there was a proposal to go forward to change things and ward members are in agreement, it would then consult with residents. If a majority were in favour, it could then go forward.”

The report further notes that, while grass verge parking is an issue for some residents, it is generally considered a low priority across the borough. Many residents express concerns about the damaging appearance of muddy verges, which can detract from the overall look of their streets.

Community engagement remains a foundational aspect of the proposed changes. The council aims to avoid unnecessary expenditures on proposals that do not have majority backing. Grayson’s comments reflect a commitment to ensuring that any changes align with the desires of the local populace.

As discussions continue, the council is focused on balancing the need for parking with the preservation of the borough’s green spaces. The outcome will depend significantly on the views of residents in the affected areas, underscoring the importance of community input in local governance.

This initiative highlights a growing trend among councils to adapt to the needs of residents while also considering environmental impacts. North Tyneside is setting a precedent for how local authorities can navigate the complexities of urban planning and community engagement.