From February 2009, South Hams residents will be able to park overnight in any council-operated car park for just £10 a year.

The council is introducing a 12-month pilot scheme, beginning on 1st February 2009, to enable residents to park free-of-charge from 4pm overnight until 10am the following morning, every day.  There will be no need to buy a ticket from the car park machine unless you intend to park before 4pm or after 10am.  The resident’s parking permit will be valid in all council-operated car parks.  An administration fee of £10 (including vat) will apply to each permit.

The resident’s parking permit must be clearly displayed in your car for the concession to apply.  Any owner of a car parked in a council-owned car park without either a valid ticket or parking permit will be given a penalty charge notice.

This permit will be able to be used in short term car parks as well, but users must not overstay the parking times allowed in these car parks.

The pilot scheme will run for 12 months, during which time it will be monitored to see if it meets the needs of South Hams residents without placing a financial burden on the council and the council taxpayers.

To qualify for a resident’s parking permit, your main home must be in the South Hams.  Permits will not be issued to holiday or second home owners.  Each permit will only be valid for use with one vehicle.

To avoid a last minute rush for permits, the council is accepting applications from mid-December.  Watch out for an application form posted through your letterbox soon.  Details of how the scheme will work can be found on the application form.