Abolish Westminster parking charge says MRA

Westminster City Council’s parking charges for motorcycles run contrary to the Government’s intention to make motorcycling more mainstream, and to the Mayor of London’s plans to make London more motorcycle-friendly, according to the RMI Motorcycle Retailers Association (MRA).

Westminster City Council have been charging motorcyclists to park in Westminster since 4 August 2008. A day permits costs £1.50, while an annual permit costs £150. Weekly, monthly, and quarterly permits are also available.

The charge is seen to be at odds with both national and regional Government policy on motorcycling, and many in the motorcycle sector would like to see Westminster’s charges abolished.

MRA Chairman Martin Marshall commented: ‘At a time when London Mayor Boris Johnson is opening up bus lanes to powered two wheelers (PTWs) and more and more people are turning to motorcycles and scooters, increased amounts of free parking should be provided, so it would be appropriate to drop this charging regime.’

Marshall continues: ‘Motorcycles and scooters provide the ideal solution for commuters seeking a genuine door-to-door solution. In fact, where public transport does not serve their needs and cycling is not an option, bikes provide a practical alternative for those seeking personal mobility.’

Marshall adds: ‘These charges were introduced without proper consultation, in effect being forced upon users without prior notification, and now being said to be in a trial period. The MRA are lobbying Westminster City Council for the charges to be removed.’