Blue badge holders could start to pay parking fees at Itchen Valley County Park in March.
Eastleigh Borough Council has proposed implementing parking charges with a disabled person’s blue badge.
The proposal forms part of the park’s ongoing regeneration and improvements, specifically to the parking system.
The new system installed by the council in December offers visitors to pay only for their time in the park rather than “running the risk” of losing paid-for parking time or even receiving a fine for overstaying on their pay and display ticket.
A public consultation was undertaken to gather residents’ comments on the proposal. Only one comment was received from a “frequent” visitor who has a blue badge.
The person, who holds a blue badge, said that due to medical recommendations, he visited the park every day for a walk and exercise.
It said that blue badge holders enjoyed free parking at the park, but the proposed orders would require all blue badge holders to pay the full charge to park.
They also stated that the minimum charge of £2.10 for the first hour is unaffordable to some.
Responding, Eastleigh Borough Council said that there is a 30-minute concession at Itchen Valley Country Park and a season ticket can be obtained, which works out at 16p per day.
As part of the plan, the council will also incorporate and regulate parking restrictions on the newly constructed car park area.
The decision is set to be approved by the Hedge End, West End and Botley local area committee next week (March 3).
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