Annual Parking Report

2009/2010
1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010

This is the first Annual Report produced by Impact Partnership in

accordance with Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council, to be
submitted for consideration to the Economy, Environment and Transport
Scrutiny Commission; in accordance with the Department of Transport’s
“Civil Enforcement Operational Guidance to local Authorities”.

Impact Partnership – Mouchel, Agilisys and Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council working together to improve
life for local people by delivering excellent public services, physical regeneration and creating new jobs.

www.impactpartnership.com

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Contents

Introduction Page 3

The Rochdale Borough Page 4

Civil Parking Enforcement

• The Background Page 5

• Why Civil Parking Enforcement is necessary Page 6

• How we enforce Page 6

Frequently asked questions Page 8

Appeals process Page 10

Summary of Penalty Charge Notices Page 10

The Blue Badge Scheme Page 12

Dispensations and Suspensions Page 12

Resident Parking Page 13

Parking Facilities Page 15

Contract Parking Page 16

Park Mark Page 17

Income and expenditure Page 17

Staff Page 18

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Introduction

I am pleased to present Rochdale Council’s Parking Annual Report for 2009/2010.

The Borough is promoting a platform for change via the Rochdale Borough Renaissance
Masterplan which sets out a 15 years vision to become nationally recognised for the quality
of life offered to residents, visitors and employees so people will choose to come and live in
Rochdale. The Masterplan aspires to take full advantage of the Boroughs strategic location
and environmental assets to attract commercial and leisure investment. We aim to offer high
quality living environments and excellent work opportunities and wide range leisure activities.
Also to raise expectations in the quality of design of our buildings, town centers and open
spaces for which the provision of parking forms an integral part.

Improving the local environment is the concept that lies at the heart of our vision. The scale
of the investment already coming on-stream, plus funding opportunities during the period of
the Masterplan mean important regeneration catalysts can be developed and conditions
created for increasing levels of private sector investment.

The Masterplan and Rochdale Transport Strategy aim to deliver radical improvements to the
public transport network and connections within the Borough and with Greater Manchester
with park and ride provision at transport hubs a main priority. Good access and connectivity
is crucial if the vision for the Borough is to be achieved. Improving access to the town
centres, employment sites and local services is vital as the Borough develops and redefines
its image.

The purpose of this report is to provide interesting information about the Rochdale Borough,
along with why Civil Parking Enforcement is necessary and how we enforce the parking
restrictions that are in place. The report also includes helpful information regarding how the
appeals process works, along with providing statistical information on our parking
enforcement operations. Information relating to our Pay and Display Car Parks, Permits,
Dispensations/Suspensions, the Blue Badge Scheme, Residents Parking and our back office
staff is also included.

One of the priorities of the Department of Transport is to ensure that the enforcement of
parking restrictions is transparent, consistent and fair. Rochdale Metropolitan Borough
Council works hard to ensure the Civil Parking Enforcement meets those criteria. By
publishing our parking report annually, we aim to increase transparency and ensure that our
customers are aware of our dedication to improve the parking regime for the residents,
businesses and visitors, of the Rochdale Borough.

I thank you for taking the time to read our first Parking Annual Report and hope that you find
the contents of the report both interesting and informative.

Councillor Liz Thirsk

Portfolio Holder - Highways and Engineering
September 2010

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The Rochdale Borough

Rochdale Borough is the second largest, in area, of the 10 metropolitan boroughs that make
up Greater Manchester. It covers an area of 62 square miles, stretching from the north-
eastern side of Manchester, to the Pennines and the borders of South Yorkshire. The
Borough was originally formed out of six independent local authorities in 1974 - Heywood,
Littleborough, Middleton, Milnrow, Rochdale and Wardle.

Many years ago Rochdale was a major weaving district and the upper floors of cottages in
towns like Wardle, Littleborough and Milnrow, still bear evidence of Weaver's windows,
where cotton, and earlier wool, was woven. By Tudor times it had become an important area
for the manufacture of woolen cloth and by the eighteenth century, as steam power took
over in the new textile mills, the fast-flowing streams which ran down from the neighbouring
Pennine Hills made Rochdale, and its six towns, strategically placed to develop textile
production into a fully mechanised and productive industry.

Although most of the mills have gone, remains of the era can still be seen with the existing
millponds, water channels and converted mill buildings. The River Roch which was paved
over to allow trams to be routed into the town, still runs beneath the town centre itself.

The Rochdale Borough today is a diverse and multi-cultural community with a population of
206,500, which is expected to grow to 217,000 by 2021. There are four townships,
Rochdale, Heywood, Pennines and Middleton, with Rochdale being the main town and the
administrative and commercial centre of the borough. There are a number of major premises
within the borough including one of the largest distribution centers in the North West, a
chemical processing plant, a football league ground and a prison. There are also 6,582 non-
domestic rateable properties and 92 schools.

The borough has one of the busiest motorway networks in the UK. No point in the Borough
is more than three miles from a junction of the M66, M62, M627 or the Manchester Orbital
M60, giving access to the extensive system of motorways in the region and to the national
road network. The borough is also due to receive an extension of the Metrolink Light Rail
System with works already having commenced.

Rochdale is well known for being the birthplace of the singer (Gracie Fields) along with being
the birthplace of the Co-operative Movement. The Pioneers Museum in Toad Lane still
welcomes regional, national and international visitors of all ages.

One of Rochdale’s most recognisable buildings is the Town Hall which was completed in
September 1871. With its grand, imposing and elegant nature, along with how it dominates
the approach to the town, it is considered to be one of the finest examples of its kind in
England.

Rochdale Town Hall Hollingworth Lake

Another well known attraction within the borough is Hollingworth Lake. With its Visitor
Centre, boating facilities, nature reserve, trails, events, guided walks, community arts,
environmental exhibitions, play/picnic areas, it is very popular with residents and tourists
alike.
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The Background

In 2003 Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council applied to the Secretary of State for powers
to carry out Decriminalised Parking Enforcement (DPE), as of 4th July 2004. The application
was successful and the powers were awarded for enforcement in the Rochdale Borough.
This meant that Rochdale MBC took over the responsibility for the enforcement of ‘on street’
and ‘off street’ parking areas from the police.

The excluded highway is:

i) The M60, M62 and M66 motorways for their entire length in Rochdale MBC, including
slip roads and roundabouts which are subject to motorway regulations.
ii) The A627(M) for its entire length in Rochdale MBC, including slip roads and
roundabouts which are subject to motorway regulations.

The notices issued are no longer breaches of the criminal law enforceable through the
criminal justice system, but instead Penalty Charge Notices which are a civil debt owned by
the Authority. The transfer of powers also allows the Authority to be more responsive to the
public’s needs and tackle the known problem areas.

On 31st March 2008, the parking related sections of Part 6 of the Traffic Management Act
2004 were introduced and became effective. This changed the way in which parking
enforcement was managed. Under the new act, Decriminalised Parking Enforcement (DPE)
became Civil Parking Enforcement (CPE) and Parking Attendants (PA’s), became Civil
Enforcement Officer’s (CEO’s). In addition, all existing Permitted Parking Areas (PPA’s),
along with Special Parking Area’s (SPA’s), automatically became Civil Enforcement Areas
(CEA).

One of the key changes of the act was the introduction of differential penalty charges to
reflect the severity of the contravention. Previously, a Penalty Charge Notice was £60.00,
discounted to £30.00 if paid within 14 days. The Traffic Management Act 2004 allows the
charges of £70, discounted to £35 for the higher value contraventions e.g. yellow line waiting
restriction, and £50, discounted to £25 for the lower value contraventions e.g. parked with
displaying a valid Pay and Display ticket.

The Traffic Management Act 2004 also enables Council’s to carry out bus lane enforcement
as well as issue Regulation 10 Penalty Charge Notices. This means that a Penalty Charge
Notice can be served through the post if a Civil Enforcement Officer is prevented from
issuing the notice either, through violence, threats, or from the vehicle being driven away
after the Civil Enforcement Officer has commenced issue. Rochdale Council will be
exercising Regulation 10 powers as from 1st September 2010.

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Why Civil Parking Enforcement is necessary

Whilst parking restrictions are rarely popular with motorists, without them there would be
significantly higher levels of congestion (even gridlock), frustration, stress and potentially an
increase in the number of accidents. Thoughtless drivers who leave vehicles parked on
pavements or double yellow lines, block streets and cause danger to pedestrians and other
road users who have to try and get around them.

Civil Parking Enforcement is therefore necessary to:

• Improve road safety generally to reduce the potential for accidents.
• Keep areas outside of schools free of traffic to help with the safety of our children.
• Reduce congestion from inconsiderate or, dangerous parking.
• Prevent emergency and other public service vehicles such as bin wagons, having
their route blocked, especially in narrow streets.
• Meet the needs of customers with special requirements such as disabled badge
holders.
• Improve the flow of traffic and journey times throughout the area.
• Improve the quality and accessibility of public transport.
• Ensure buses can stop and pick up/collect passengers.
• Ensure effective loading/unloading for local business.
• Provide a turnover of available parking spaces for areas of high demand.
• Manage kerb space to ensure access to facilities.
• Improve the environment by reducing damage to pavements and verges and, as a
result, the cost of repairing them.

Residents, businesses, commuters, people with disabilities, shoppers, students and visitors
are just some of the groups who have differing needs for parking and travel. By
administering effective Parking Management, the council ensures that available parking
areas and road space are able to be shared in a fair and transparent way.

How we enforce

Before enforcement is able to commence, a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) must be in

place. A TRO is the legal instrument by which traffic authorities implement most traffic
management controls on their roads. Under the provisions of the Road Traffic Regulation Act
1984, local authorities can implement Traffic Regulation Orders to regulate, restrict or
prohibit the use of a road or any part of the width of a road by vehicular traffic or pedestrians.
There are many different types of TRO’s which are implemented for various reasons and can
take effect at all times or during specified periods. The process for implementing a TRO is as
follows:
• Our network management duties identify where a TRO is required.
• Consultation. The emergency services and GMPTE are consulted and their approval
obtained.
• Public consultation. Notices are advertised in the local press and copies sent to
organisations representing road users. Copies of the notice and plans showing the
proposals are deposited at various local authority offices for the public to view.
• Consultation period. This lasts for 28 days from when the notices are posted. During
this period the general public may make comments on the proposals by writing into
the Borough Solicitor.
• Objections. All comments are considered by committee and the objectors informed of
the outcome. This may result in the proposals not being introduced or amended.
• Validation. The Orders are then re-advertised in the press when the public have six
weeks when they may question the validity of the Orders in the High Court on the
grounds that the correct procedure had not been followed.

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 • Sealing of the Order. The Order is then sealed and becomes operative. A TRO
remains operative until legally revoked following the same procedure as that required
for its introduction.
• The relevant road markings, lines and signs are then put in place.

Once a Traffic Regulation Order is in place, Civil Enforcement Officers, employed by our
contractor, NSL Services Ltd, are able to issue Penalty Charge Notices to vehicles parked in
contravention of the Traffic Management Act 2004. Therefore if your vehicle is parked:
• In an area where waiting and loading restrictions are in force at the time,
• In a reserved bay (i.e. disabled, resident’s) without displaying a valid permit,
• In a suspended bay or space,
• Outside of the bay markings (where applicable),
• At a bus stop or in a bus lane during prohibited times,
• On mandatory zig-zag lines outside a school,
• On a pedestrian crossing or crossings marked by zigzags,
• In a Pay and Display area without displaying a valid ticket,
• For longer than permitted or returning to the same parking area within the time
restriction,
• Parked wholly or partly on a cycle track or lane,
• Parked with one or more wheels on or over a footpath or any part of a road other
than a carriageway,
• On the pavement or on grass verges behind waiting restrictions in force at the time.
• Stopped on a clearway.

You will be liable for a Penalty Charge Notice. Below are examples of some of the
contraventions we enforce:

Bus Stop Restricted Waiting Zig-Zags outside a school Cycle Lane Reserved Bay

Out of Bay Pay & Display Pedestrian Crossing Clearway

The onus is on the motorist to ensure they are aware of the restrictions in place before they
park their vehicle. To help us with our Civil Parking Enforcement we ask that all road users
are aware of the meaning of the various signs, lines and road markings by checking with the
latest version of the Highway Code. This is available from bookshops. It is also possible to
download details of “Signs Giving Orders” and “Information Signs & Road Markings” from the
Direct Gov website using the link
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Highwaycode/Signsandmarkings/index.htm

The enforcement does not affect drivers who park their vehicle correctly, pay the
correct parking tariffs or display valid permits/badges where applicable.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I pay a Penalty Charge Notice?

Payments can be made by:
• Cheque/postal orders (payable to Rochdale MBC).
o Post to Rochdale RMBC, Fashion Corner, 57/59 Drake Street, Rochdale,
OL16 1XL.
• Credit/Debit.
o Telephone 01706 926169.
o Call our automated payment line 01706 926180 24 hours a day.
o Use the Internet www.Rochdale.gov.uk
• Cash Payments ONLY.
o Can be made in person at The Bus Station Office, Level 2, Multi Storey Car
Park, Smith Street, Rochdale.

Can I pay in instalments?

To be eligible for the 50% discount rate, payment must be received within 14 days from the
date the Penalty Charge Notice was issued therefore it would not be in your best interest to
enter into a payment plan at this stage.

Can I pay in installments once the discounted period has expired?

A payment plan will be considered if you can provide evidence that you are in receipt of a
means tested benefit.

Can I pay at the discounted rate to stop the charge progressing and then still appeal?
No, once payment has been made liability has been accepted and the case is closed.

I thought I could park in a loading bay for the allowed time of 20 minutes?
Loading areas are provided to allow delivery vehicles to operate without causing traffic
congestion or obstruction. Rochdale MBC do not restrict the period of time you may spend in
a loading bay as long as you are constantly loading or unloading.

What is meant by loading/unloading?

The term loading and unloading is strictly reserved for large, bulky articles which are unable
to be physically carried a great distance. Depositing cash or shopping, does not constitute
loading or unloading.

I was not parked on the double yellow lines. I was parked on the footpath behind
them.
A yellow line restriction runs from the centre of the road to the edge of the
carriageway/highway. This is usually represented by the building or property line although it
is not always the case.

Why do I have to pay for parking?

Parking fees pay for the maintenance of the car park. The various tariffs and restrictions help
to ensure that there is an adequate turnover of parking spaces to allow customers to ‘stop
and shop’.

My meeting/doctor's appointment over ran.

It is the motorist's own responsibility to ensure they purchase enough parking time to cover
the duration of their stay. Where there is a possibility that you will exceed the paid for
parking time i.e. meeting, appointment etc we advise you use the Bus Station Multi Storey
Car Park which is Pay on Foot, meaning you pay when you return to your vehicle for the
period of time for which you have been parked.

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I was only just parked over the bay markings. Do I still have to pay?
Bay markings are in place to ensure safety and prevent inconvenience to other users of the
car park. When vehicles are parked over the bay markings valuable parking space is lost
and also access could be restricted for emergency vehicles.

I am new to the area and did not know about the restriction.
It is the motorists own responsibility to ensure they are aware of the prevailing parking
restrictions in place before they park their vehicle.

My disability badge fell to the floor when I closed the car door.
When Blue Badges are not on display and forwarded at a later date, it leaves the scheme
open to abuse. We therefore ask that all badge holders ensure their badges are displayed
correctly. In striving to reduce potential Blue Badge abuse it is unlikely that a notice issued
for this reason will be cancelled.

I was not the driver, am I still liable?

Under the Traffic Management Act 2004, the registered owner/keeper of the vehicle is liable
for any Penalty Charge Notices which are issued, unless there is a signed hire agreement in
place or, the vehicle has been taken without consent, in which case a police crime reference
number is required.

I sold the vehicle but do not know the name and address of who I sold it to.
When you sell/dispose of a vehicle you have a legal obligation to inform DVLA. In order for
the notice to be redirected we require written confirmation from DVLA that you were not the
registered owner/keeper of the vehicle at the time the contravention occurred. Failure to
obtain and provide this information could result in you being liable for the charge.

What happens if I ignore the Penalty Charge Notice?

Please do not ignore. The notice is a civil debt and could result in bailiff action being taken if
the notice progresses and is successfully registered as a debt at County Court.

Where does the money from Civil Parking Enforcement go?

The law states that Civil Parking Enforcement must be self-financing. Any surplus income
after the costs of administration and enforcement are deducted goes back into the revenue
budget to be used for improving local transport. This includes parking, traffic management,
better public transport and facilities for pedestrians or cyclists.

Where can I get copies of the legislation?

The procedures for issuing Penalty Charge Notices are contained in the Traffic Management
Act 2004 (TMA 2004). Copies of which are obtained from Her Majesty’s Stationery Office
(HMSO). Information can also be found on the Rochdale MBC website.

How do I appeal a Penalty Charge Notice?

All appeals must be made in writing either by:
• Post.
o Parking Services, Rochdale MBC, PO Box 50, Rochdale, OL16 1FL.
• Email.
o parkingservices@theimpactpartnership.com
o Parkingservices@Rochdale.Gov.UK
• Appeals form, available from:
o Customer Services, Floor 2, Municipal Offices Smith Street, Rochdale.
o www.Rochdale.gov.

How do I report a problematic parking area where restrictions apply?

Enquiries should be directed to 0845 4586630 and information such as location, what the
problem appears to be and the times the problem occurs should be given.
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Appeals process

There are 3 stages to the appeal process:

Challenge (1st stage)

An informal challenge can be made against a Penalty Charge Notice. If the challenge is
rejected, we will send a Notice of Rejection of Challenge, explaining why the notice was
issued to the vehicle and also why the challenge has been rejected. If the challenge was
received within 14 days from the date the notice was issued, the discount rate will still apply.
If the challenge is accepted, the case will be closed and we will respond in writing explaining
why.

Representation (2nd stage)

Once a Notice to Owner has been served there is a period of 28 days whereby a formal
representation can be made. If the representation is rejected the full charge of either £50.00
or £70.00 will be applicable. A Notice of Rejection of Representation will be sent including a
form, which will allow an appeal to be submitted to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal. If the
representation is accepted, a Notice of Acceptance of Representation will be sent.

Appeal (3rd stage)

Following a Notice of Rejection of Representation there is a 28 day period whereby an
appeal can be made to an adjudicator of the Traffic Penalty Tribunal. The adjudicators have
a judicial position and are appointed by the Lord Chancellor. They are independent of the
Council and their decision is final. The appellant has the choice of a postal decision or they
may participate in a personal or telephone hearing. If the appeal is refused by the
adjudicator, the full charge of either £50.00 or £70.00 is applicable. Further information about
the Traffic Penalty Tribunal can be found on their website www.trafficpenaltytribunal.gov.uk

General information on associated rules and regulations regarding challenges,

representations and appeals, can be found on the PATROL (Parking and Traffic Regulations
outside London) website www.patrol-uk.info

When dealing with appeals we ensure that each case is viewed on its own merits in a fair
and equitable manner and any mitigating circumstances are taken in to account. We have
guidelines and procedures in place to ensure we are consistent in our approach and all of
our back office staff are fully trained in parking enforcement. To ensure we deliver a service
that is both effective and efficient, we continually assess staff training requirements and
regularly improve skills and knowledge.

Summary of Penalty Charge Notices (PCN’s)

Statistical information for parking PCN’s 2009/2010 Total PCN’s

Total number of PCN’s issued. 16196

Number of PCN’s issued ‘On Street’ 12012

Number of PCN’s issued ‘Off Street’ 4184

Number of higher level PCN’s issued 9168

Number of lower level PCN’s issued 7028

Number of PCN’s paid 12050

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 Number of PCN’s paid at discount rate 10215

Percentage of PCN’s paid at discount rate 63.07%

Percentage of PCN’s paid at full charge 7.12%

Percentage of PCN’s paid at Charge Certificate 2.75%

Number of PCN’s against which an informal or formal

4906
representation was made
Number of PCN’s cancelled as a result of an informal
1879
or a formal representation
Percentage of PCN’s written off for other reasons (e.g.
3.78%
CEO error or driver untraceable)
Number of NTO’s served 4511

Percentage of appeals to adjudicator 0.32%

Percentage of appeals allowed 32.92%

Percentage of appeals dismissed 45.23%

Percentage of appeals non contested 21.85%

Number of Charge Certificates served 2814

Percentage of PCN’s registered at County Court 12.02%

The number of Penalty Charge Notices issued each year since Rochdale Council began
Decriminalised Parking Enforcement in 2004, has reduced significantly. In the first twelve
months there were 25,000 notices issued compared to 16,196 in 2009/2010. This is mainly
attributed to a high level of compliance from motorists.

The above table shows that 1879 PCN’s were cancelled as a result of an informal or a
formal representation, this is approximately 38%. There are a number of reasons why
notices may be cancelled such as, disabled badges not being displayed correctly, Pay and
Display vouchers displayed face down so the expiry time is unable to be seen or, no
evidence of loading and unloading seen by the Civil Enforcement Officer, but an
authenticated delivery note is forwarded at a later date.

Each year the Traffic Penalty Tribunal publishes their annual report on the PATROL website.
This allows members of the public to view information regarding the enforcement of parking
tickets and also to compare statistical information against other Local Authorities. The
2008/2009 annual report shows that the average percentage of appeals for Local Authorities
within Greater Manchester is 34.22%. The average percentage of appeals that are allowed
is 34.77%. Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council is therefore in line with other neighboring
authorities regarding appeals to the adjudicator. To access the report, click on ‘Downloads’
from the home page of the PATROL website (as detailed above).

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The Blue Badge Scheme

This is a national arrangement of parking concessions for people with severe mobility
problems who have difficulty using public transport. The Scheme is designed to help
severely disabled people travel independently, either as a driver or passenger, by allowing
them to park close to their destination.

Each Blue Badge that has been issued should have been accompanied by The Blue Badge
Scheme booklet which outlines in detail, the full concessions of the badge. Copies of the
booklet can be found in “The Blue Badge Scheme” section of the Department of Transport’s
website www.dtf.gov.uk . Alternatively, you may contact the issuing office, Social Services,
Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council.

The concessions of the scheme apply to on-street parking only and it is important that all
badge holders, carefully read the contents of the booklet before attempting to use their
badge. Off Street parking concessions vary from town to town and it is up to the car park
owner as to whether concessions of the Blue Badge are available. Blue Badge holders are
therefore advised to always check the prevailing parking conditions of the area to which they
are visiting.

Rochdale Council has designated disabled parking bays both on and off street and the
concessions of the Blue Badge apply in all their Pay and Display car parks providing a valid
Disability Badge is clearly displayed. The Bus Station multi story car park is also available
free of charge. We do however ask that badge holders, upon returning to the car park take
their valid Blue Badge to the Bus Station office on level 2, where they will be given a pass
that will allow their vehicle to exit the car park.

To help eliminate the potential misuse of Blue Badges, The Traffic Management Act 2004
introduced the “power to inspect”. This means that should a Civil Enforcement Officer ask to
see your badge, you must show it to them. If you do not, you will be breaking the law and
could be fined up to £1,000.

MISUSE OF A DESIGNATED BLUE BADGE IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE. YOUR BADGE

CAN BE WITHDRAWN IF YOU LET OTHERS USE IT.

Dispensations and Suspensions

A Parking Dispensation is a notice issued by the Council allowing a vehicle to park on a

waiting restriction (yellow line) for a specified period of time. A 24 hour notice period is
usually required.

A Parking Suspension allows a motorist to park in a reserved parking bay such as pay and
display (beyond the restricted maximum stay), resident’s or, disabled bay during the
restricted hours. A 7 day notice period is required so we are able to display signs giving
advance notice that the bay is going to be suspended. On the day of the suspension, the
bay will be coned off specifically for your vehicle. Should another vehicle park in that
particular area, they will be liable for a Penalty Charge Notice. The notice period does not
apply for bays needing to be suspended for emergency works such as a gas leak or water
burst.

A Dispensation/Suspension is approved only for vehicles carrying out works that require the
driver to park close to a building, or site, where continuous access is required to load or
unload goods or materials, for example, Glaziers, Shop Fitters etc. Applications will not
normally be considered where there is reasonable alternative off-street parking nearby (for
example a Pay & Display Car Park) or, if the reason the application is being made, is
deemed to be for convenience rather than necessity. Dispensations/Suspensions are not
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intended for those who do not require constant access to their vehicle, such as a Labourer
who once they have unloaded their tools, do not require their vehicle to be in close proximity
to the area of which they are working. In this instance we advise the motorist to unload their
tools and then park their vehicle legally.

Each Dispensation/Suspension applies to one specific vehicle, in the exact location stated,
and within the dates on the document itself. If more than one vehicle is required, a separate
Dispensation/Suspension should be obtained. Anyone found to be parked in contravention
of the rules and regulations could be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice.

When applying for a Dispensation/Suspension the following details are required:

• Name.
• Contact details.
• Vehicle registration.
• Reason the Dispensation/Suspension is required.
• Start date and length of time the Dispensation/Suspension is to operate for.
• Location, i.e. road name.

The minimum charge for a Dispensation/Suspension is £35.00. The total cost will depend on
where the vehicle is going to be parked and for how long. The total cost will be given at the
time of application. Please note that once a Dispensation/Suspension has been issued,
monies that have been paid are non refundable.

We will also issue a suspension for the placing of a skip (provided that a licence has been
obtained).

Rochdale Council does not charge for a Dispensation issued in relation to a funeral. In these
circumstances, permission to park must be requested at least 48 hours in advance and will
be subject to assessment to ensure that a parked vehicle will not cause an
obstruction/hazard.

Resident Parking

Resident Parking Schemes are approved by elected members and introduced in areas
where there is a proven parking problem. The purpose of the scheme is to ensure that
residents who do not have access to ‘off street’ parking facilities are able to park their
vehicles in close proximity to their residences. The scheme discourages non residents and
commuters, from parking all day in areas where parking is limited. The possession of a
permit however does not guarantee a parking place.

Currently there are 5 Resident Parking Schemes in operation within the Rochdale Borough:

1. Middleton, split into two zones:

o Beech Street Zone.

Silk Street.

Michael Street.

Beech Street.

o Burton Street Zone.

Whittaker Street.

Burton Street.

2. Heap Bridge:

Gore Close - All addresses.

Lord Street - All addresses.

Waterfold Lane - Odd numbers 1 to 91 inclusive
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Bury New Road - Odd numbers 87 to 91 inclusive

3. Rochdale Railway Station:

Ann Street - Even No’s 62 and 64.

Margaret Clitherow Ct, Ann Street - Even No’s 36 to 46 inclusive.

Margaret Clitherow Ct, Dowling Street- Odd No’s 1 to 7 inclusive.

Margaret Clitherow Ct, Milk Street - Even No’s 2 to 16 inclusive.

Milk Street - Odd No 5.

Hampden Street - Even No’s 2 and 4.

Henry Street - Odd No’s 3 to 9 inclusive.

Maclure Road - Odd No 1.

Maclure Road - Odd No’s 15 to 25 inclusive.

Richard Street - Even No’s 20 to 42 inclusive.

Richard Street - Even No’s 44 to 54 inclusive.

4. Church Stile:

Chancel Place - No’s 1 to 12 inclusive

Church Stile - Odd No’s 13 to 21 inclusive

Church Stile - No’s 28 to 31 inclusive

Moore Street - Odd No’s 37 and 39

Oak Street - Odd No’s 1 to 9 inclusive

Oak Street - Even No 30

St Chad’s Close - No’s 1 to 25 inclusive

St Chad’s Close - Odd No 27

Each eligible household is entitled up to two permits (one resident and one visitor’s permit).
If a tradesperson or contractor is working at a specific property, they could borrow the
visitor’s permit from the household where they are working. Alternatively, a
tradesperson/contractor could contact the Policy and Strategy Team to apply for a
Dispensation/Suspension.

For more information on applying, renewing or amending a Resident’s Parking Permit please
contact 0845 4586630.

5. College Bank:

All areas.

College Bank Resident Parking Permits are processed by Rochdale Borough Housing. Each
household is entitled to one resident permit on production of evidence that they are a
resident on College Bank. Each flat can also have one visitor’s permit. Day permits are
issued on request to one off callers, such as delivery drivers and tradesmen. Visitor permits
are also issued to agencies such as, Social Services, Home Care and GP surgeries etc
where regular visits are necessary. Permits are renewed each year in March.

All the above schemes are enforced by our Civil Enforcement Officers and are in operation
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

There are currently no charges applicable for Residential Parking Schemes within the
Rochdale Borough. Each Council will however have its own rules and regulations therefore,
it is advisable to check with the individual issuing authority, on how to apply, renew, or
withdraw from a Resident’s Parking Scheme and also what their charges may be.

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Parking facilities

We provide public parking facilities to assist with traffic management, environmental

improvements, and to support our community by ensuring we have sufficient availability to
meet the demands of residents, shoppers and local businesses.

All of our Pay and Display machines are supplied by Parkeon and are solar powered so they
do not require an electrical source. The machines are serviced regularly and checked on a
daily basis to ensure they are in full working order. Should any problems occur, faults can be
reported to a member of the Parking Services Team 0845 4586630. Payment is by coins
only and unfortunately change is not able to be given.

On Street Number of Maximum Stay Tariff Range

Spaces
Esplanade 84 3 hours 1 hr 70p - 3 hrs £1.30
Packer Street 13 3 hours 1 hr 70p - 3 hrs £1.30
Oldham Road 15 3 hours 1 hr 70p - 3 hrs £1.30
Drake Street 14 3 hours 1 hr 70p - 3 hrs £1.30
St Marys Gate 11 3 hours 1 hr 70p - 3 hrs £1.30
Smith Street 10 1 hr 1 hr 70p
Fleece Street 10 1 hr 1 hr 70p
Nelson Street 14 1 hr 1 hr 70p
King Street 8 1 hr 1 hr 70p
Church Lane (inner) 16 1 hr 1 hr 70p
South Lane 6 1 hr 1 hr 70p
Hunters Lane 22 1 hr 1 hr 70p
Cheetham Street 13 1 hr 1 hr 70p
Yorkshire Street 27 1 hr 1 hr 70p
Newgate 24 1 hr 1 hr 70p
Church Lane (Outer) 28 10 hrs 2 hrs 90p – over 6 hrs £2.60
Water Street 25 10 hrs 2 hrs 90p – over 6 hrs £2.60
TOTAL SPACES 340

Off Street – Littleborough Number of Maximum Stay Tariff Range

Spaces
Lake Bank 90 10 hrs 2 hrs 70p – over 4 hrs £2.00
Hollingworth Road 250 10 hrs 2 hrs 70p – over 4 hrs £2.00
Hollingworth Country Park 250 10 hrs 2 hrs 70p – over 4 hrs £2.00
TOTAL SPACES 590

Off Street – Middleton Number of Maximum Stay Tariff Range

Spaces
Middleton Archer 61 10 hrs 1 hr 40p – over 3 hrs £2.00
Limetrees 36 10 hrs 1 hr 40p – over 3 hrs £2.00
Chapel Street 19 3hrs 1 hr 40p – 3 hrs 90p
East View 49 3hrs Mon Wed 1 hr 40p – 3 hrs 90p
Thur only
Market Place 43 3 hrs 1 hr 40p – 3 hrs 90p
TOTAL SPACES 208

Off Street – Rochdale Number of Maximum Stay Tariff Range

Spaces
Back Oldham Road 36 10 hrs 1 hr 30p – over 6 hrs £2.60
High Street 84 10 hrs 2 hrs 90p – over 6 hrs £2.60
Whitworth Road 250 10 hrs 2 hrs 90p – over 6 hrs £2.60
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Wet Rake Gardens 9 10 hrs 2 hrs 90p – over 6 hrs £2.60
Church Lane 19 3 hrs 1 hr 70p – 3 hrs £1.30
Eastgate 30 3 hrs 1 hr 70p – 3 hrs £1.30
Reed Hill 45 3 hrs 1 hr 70p – 3 hrs £1.30
Broadfield Upper/Lower 62 3 hrs 1 hr 70p – 3 hrs £1.30
Town Hall Square 152 4 hrs 1 hr 70p – 4 hrs £2.30
Cheetham Street 20 3 hrs 1 hr 70p – 3 hrs £1.30
Union Street 61 3 hrs 1 hr 70p – 3 hrs £1.30
Upper Yorkshire St 19 3 hrs 1 hr 70p – 3 hrs £1.30
Greenwood Street 19 3 hrs 1 hr 70p – 3 hrs £1.30
Bus Station 413 Open 7am to 1 hr 70p – over 6 hrs £6.50
7pm
Drake Street East 250 All day £1.50
The Holme 251 No limit Contract parking only
TOTAL SPACES 1720

The Bus Station Car Park is Pay on Foot which means that you take a ticket on entering the
car park and pay for the amount of parking time that you have used when you return. This
allows flexibility in how long you park for. Payment can be made with either notes or coins.

The pricing tariffs and restrictions are structured to ensure the inner town centre car parks
are short stay only, thus allowing a high turnover of spaces which allows more customers to
‘stop and shop’. The long stay car parks are situated on the outskirts of the town centre and
meet the requirements of different motorists such as town centre workers who require a
lengthy period of parking time.

To boost trade and support local retailers, the ‘Free after 3pm’ parking scheme was
implemented on 1st June 2009. The scheme was introduced to encourage shoppers into the
town and thus purchase goods from the local retailers. An extension of the scheme, “Free
Saturday all day parking” has also been introduced for a six month trial period and came into
effect 7th August 2010. Naturally both of these initiatives have significantly reduced income
from Parking Charges and also reduced the number of Penalty Charge Notices that are
issued.

Contract parking

Contract parking permits are currently available for:

• The Bus Station.
• Rochdale Others.
• Middleton.
• Premium (includes any of the surface car parks within the Borough).

The Permits are issued during a 12 month period commencing 1st April to 31st March. The
minimum purchase is 3 months with the permit price starting from £93.00 up to £1000.00.
The permit price differs depending on the parking area, whether the permit is for 5 or 6 days
and also on what the class of vehicle is. At a time when everyone is being encouraged to
reduce their carbon footprint, Rochdale Council has introduced a price banding system in
line with DVLA’s road tax prices to allow those vehicles with less CO2 emissions to pay a
cheaper permit price.

Each permit can have up to three vehicle registrations on but only one vehicle can be on
park at any one time. The permit must be clearly displayed in the vehicle and any lost
permits will be charged for at a rate of £10.00 per duplicate.

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Park Mark

Park Mark, the safer parking award is an

initiative of the Association of Chief Police
Officers (ACPO) designed to reduce
criminal behaviour within the parking
environment. The scheme is managed by
the British Parking Association and is
supported by the Home Office and all the
Police Forces in England, Scotland, Wales
and Ireland.

To obtain the award an investigation is carried out by the police to assess the facilities in
place and to ensure the parking area is of a high standard in relation to cleanliness, signage,
surveillance and lighting. Once the police are satisfied that the parking area sufficiently
meets the appropriate standards and that it is correctly managed and maintained, the safer
park mark status will be awarded.

Currently 5 of our Pay and Display Car Parks along with our Multi Storey ‘pay on foot’ car
park have been awarded the Park Map status. We aim to achieve the award for more of our
car parks in the future.

Income and expenditure

Total income and expenditure for 2009/2010 on the parking account kept under Section 55
of the Road Traffic Act 1984 as amended:

On Street
Income
Pay and display £240,191.15

Expenditure
Maintenance £11,401.72

Off Street
Income
Pay and Display £648,936.10
Contract Parking £277,641.72
Contract Parking Recharged £132,584.66

Expenditure
Maintenance £45,606.88

Civil Parking Enforcement

Income
Penalty Charge Notices (On & Off Street) £496,537.47
Dispensation/Suspension £4,100.13

Expenditure
Enforcement Contract £591,740.42
(TPT/TEC/Subscriptions) £25,411.75

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 Staff

Following a restructure of Highways and Engineering in January 2010, Parking Services

amalgamated with Network Improvement and Development to form the Policy and Strategy
Team.

Policy and Strategy

Manager

Parking Network Improvement Development

Team Leader Team Leader Team Leader

Parking 4x Engineers
Administrator Trainee Engineer
Clerk of Works
Enforcement Officer
3.5x Parking Policy Assistant
Assistants Registry Officer

Network Improvement and Development are responsible for looking after the policies and
strategies which guide the management and improvement of our highway network, for
example our Local Transport Plan. They also assess and advise on the highway impact of
development proposals and manage the Council’s register of adopted highways.

Parking Services are responsible for managing the Council’s ‘on and off street’ Civil Parking
Enforcement along with the short and long stay parking facilities.

Management of parking has become an important means of influencing overall levels of

traffic demand, as well as controlling the type of journeys possible. Working together as one
team will enable innovation and increased efficiency in delivering, and sustaining, improved
network developments. We will also be able to promote a good balance between the use of
public and private transport, while still maintaining a high level of performance, and excellent
customer care.

If you have any questions that have not been answered in this report, please do not hesitate
to contact us.

Tel: 0845 4586630

Fax: 01706 924640
Email: parkingservices@impactpartnership.com
parkingservices@rochdale.gov.uk

Tim Wood
Policy and Strategy Manager

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