An overhaul of parking in Brent will see daily charges for visitors trebled, diesel drivers charged an extra £25 a year and permits limited to two per household.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Cllr Eleanor SouthwoodCllr Eleanor Southwood (Image: Archant)

Under the new proposals, a new permit for carers would also be introduced but at a cost of £165 a year.

The council had previously announced day parking for visitors would surge from £1.50 to £4.50 despite admitting in a report that the changes could have a detrimental impact on those who live in Controlled Parking Zones.

The report said it would particularly affect the elderly and sick, who receive visitors who provide them with care and poorer residents living in Harlesden, Willesden Green and Kilburn wards.

The proposals were put on ice following an outcry from angry traders and visitors.

Tackling concerns that carers would be priced out of the borough the town hall will introduce a permit for them.

Carers will also have the option to buy a six month permit for £99 or £66 for three months.

The price of permits will increases in line with inflation but charges in pay and display will be frozen in an effort to support high streets and local traders.

Local traders such as plumbers and electricians will also be able to obtain a special permit to help their businesses and there will be changes to schools’ entitlements to parking permits.

The £25 supplement for diesel cars will be introduced due to their contribution to air pollution.

Cllr Eleanor Southwood, Brent Council’s cabinet member for the environment, said: “There are 40 CPZs in the borough - with 33,000 parking places serving 56,000 households, plus businesses, all of whom can have permits for up to three cars and unlimited visitors.

“With such pressure on demand, something has to be done. We want to work with residents and businesses to shape up a new approach to manage demand, keep traffic moving, reduce accidents and encourage people to use more sustainable transport wherever possible.”