Charges for parking permits on estates

A charge for parking permits for residents and their visitors is being introduced over three months from November 2007 for housing estates in the north and central areas of the borough that have parking schemes.

Why are these charges being introduced?

Illegal parking on estates is a cause of frustration to many residents. We expect the new scheme to reduce the number of illegally parked cars and thereby contribute to improvements to the estate environment.

The cost of enforcing the present parking contract is over half a million pounds and it seems fairer for these costs to be met by those making use of their cars or who have visitors requiring to park on the estate.

Who will be affected?

The charge will initially apply on those estates where there is already a permit scheme in force but may apply to additional estates in the future.

The scheme will initially apply in the North Lambeth, Vassall and Stockwell, Brixton and Clapham areas and the scheme will be introduced over a three month period estate by estate.

How much will the permits cost?

The permits cost £25 per year for residents who have valid vehicle documents and are not in rent or service charge arrears. Only one resident permit per property will normally be issued unless your estate has already agreed to two per property.

Visitors to residents on the estate can also purchase daily visitor scratch cards which cost £1.50 a day and can be purchased in books of 10, 20 or 50.

If you are living on the estate as a tenant of a leaseholder you will need their written permission to apply for a permit.

You will be asked to pay the charge at any time from November 2007 dependent on the estate on which you live. We will write to you with more details nearer the time.

Disabled residents

Those who are eligible for a blue badge on account of a disability qualify for a free resident permit, assuming they have not already qualified for a free garage.

How do I get a permit?

You will shortly be able to purchase your parking permit at your area housing office. In the meantime parking permits can be purchased at the Brixton Customer Centre.

Documents required for a Resident permit include:

• MOT certificate or SORN receipt 
• Vehicle Registration certificate (VQ5) 
• Insurance certificate 
• Proof of ID (Driving Licence) 
• Proof of Residency (Utility bill, Council Tax or tenancy agreement) 
• Leaseholder written permission - for tenants of leaseholders

Documents required for a Visitor scratch cards include: 

• Proof of ID (Driving Licence) 
• Proof of Residency (Utility bill, Council Tax or tenancy agreement) 
• Leaseholder written permission - for tenants of leaseholders