CPZ

A Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) restricts parking at certain times and days within a chosen area, prioritising parking for residents, businesses and their visitors. It reduces the number of vehicles in the area, making it safer and greener for the community.

Why a CPZ?

Why do we continue to allow people to treat Highams Park as a free car park for the city? The proximity to Highams Park station means many people drive into the area on a daily basis, adding to the congestion and air pollution, only to travel on to central London by train. This is not acceptable on a street with two schools, a nursery and a doctors surgery. We are subsidising free parking and reducing space for those who really need it! CPZs are a proven way of reducing traffic and prioritising the streets for local people.

The majority of residents on Handsworth Avenue and Church Avenue have off street parking so we really can clear the street of vehicles for the benefit of all without causing an inconvenience to residents.

Key Benefits of a CPZ

Environmental

There are fewer vehicles on roads with CPZs, therefore less congestion, noise and air pollution.

Convenience

CPZs make it easier for residents to park near their home. They also make it more convenient for visitors and for tradespeople and deliveries.

Visual

With less cars parked your street will be more attractive!

  • “Initially I was sceptical about the introduction of a CPZ but now we have less cars coming down the road and we can actually park our own cars!”

    Silverdale Road Resident

  • “Since the introduction of the CPZ, we no longer have to park half a mile down the road! Worth every penny in our opinion”

    Beech Hall Road Resident

How do we get it?

A CPZ is introduced through resident consultation. If the majority of residents support this it will be put in place. Residents are also consulted on the times the CPZ is active. There is not currently a consultation in process. We need this to happen to advance with reducing congestion, increasing road safety and then putting a School Street in place. With your support and action the council will run a consultation.

Not a fan of CPZs? We know it is a subject of great debate and passionate opinions locally, but we really hope you can also see that this is a necessary change to improve the area. We feel the costs incurred to park on the street is a small price to pay for the huge difference this will make to the environment for all residents and school children. This is the first vital step towards making Handsworth Avenue a School Street. Please read the FAQ which contains further information and may bust a few CPZ myths.