CREWE shopkeepers and disabled people are to be asked for their views on off-street parking charges.

The consultation is part of an area-wide charging review by Cheshire East Council to see how it can better support local towns and businesses.

The focus of the review will be on Crewe, Knutsford, Nantwich, Macclesfield and Congleton.

“We are a listening council that puts residents first and is committed to supporting our local businesses to help them thrive and prosper,” said council leader Clr Michael Jones.

“Parking policy needs to reflect the needs of different areas and help bring more people into Cheshire East to spend money and boost the local economy.”

He said it was recognised that each of the area’s towns was unique, and the council was not advocating “harmonising” charges across the district.

“We will focus on our key towns as a starting point for consultation,” said Clr Jones.

“We know that car parks aren’t free as we have to maintain them and need to operate on a full-cost-recovery basis.

“What we can do and will do is listen and act wherever we can to develop and implement a more attractive car parking policy to boost economic vitality and job creation across the borough.”

The council is to consult with local businesses, partnerships and people with disabilities on an off-street parking pricing policy reflecting the needs of different areas.

Electric vehicle charging bays could be introduced in some car parks.

A report setting out the outcome of the consultation and a set of recommendations will be put before the council’s Cabinet on November 11.

“We wish to set charges for parking which reflect local pressures and needs,” added Clr Jones.

“The council should also look to make car parking charges cost neutral and no longer fund our services.

“Accessible, affordable and attractive parking places encourage people to shop in towns. Cheshire East is about listening, putting residents first and being open for business.

“It is a strategy which has seen Cheshire East being recognised as the Best in the North West, and a place that is truly open for business.”