Kieran BEattie
An Aberdeen neighbourhood, which has been plagued by parking problems, could have new calming measures introduced at a cost of more than £25,000.
Councillors on the infrastructure committee will meet next week to discuss the potential new measures on Hill of Rubislaw, including signage, road markings and further consultation, which would amount to around £26,000.
People living in the area have had a long-running issue with workers from nearby oil and gas offices using their streets whenever city car parks are full.
The council carried out a study to look at bringing in a permit zone.
But a report to councillors has recommended that controlled parking measures in the area surrounding the office complex should not move forward until further talks with residents take place.
Ward councillor Martin Greig said this was partly due to the downturn in the oil and gas industry affecting the number of employees at the businesses.
Mr Greig added: “Residents living around the Hill of Rubislaw have long been dealing with the problem of commuters working at the nearby oil offices taking up their spaces.
“But, in recent times, the severity of this issue has decreased due to the economic downturn.
“Fewer employees at the offices has resulted in a drop in parking problems in the neighbouring streets, and surveys now indicate residents are finding the parking pressures are much reduced.
“It’s crucial to listen to residents and the needs of people who are affected should be met.”
In a council report, it was found that day-time parking had reduced during the last three years in all but one of the seven streets surveyed – Rubislaw Park Road.
Officers have also recommended further consultation be carried out, due to an application for planning permission to construct additional parking, with up to 191 extra spaces, at the Hill of Rubislaw complex, which would further alleviate the problem.
The report stated: “Given the uncertainty surrounding employment levels at the Hill of Rubislaw complex, it would be imprudent to progress a scheme that may not be necessary.
“Officers consider a more judicious option to be to continue to monitor the parking situation in the area surrounding the Hill of Rubislaw complex and undertake further consultation with the residents of this area at a later date.”
