A multi-storey car park is the only solution to solve the problem of parking congestion in Oban town centre, according to a senior councillor.
Oban-based councillor, and Argyll and Bute Council’s newly appointed Policy Lead for Roads and Amenity Services, Roddy McCuish was speaking yesterday at the first meeting of the council’s new area committee for Oban Lorn and the Isles.
The committee was hearing the proposed new Traffic Regulation Orders for the town.
Members agreed to endorse the proposals, which will go out for public consultation.
Under the new scheme motorists would be able to park for free in the town centre for the first 30 minutes. This includes George Street, along the A85 Oban to Perth trunk road, Corran Esplanade at the A85, William Street, Queens Park Place and Argyll Square at Nancy Blacks.
To offset the loss of income from this, charging will be introduced on Gallanach Road from the sailing club to Brandy Rock and Corran Esplanade from Glenrigh to the war memorial.
Year round charging would be introduced at the off street car parks at Ganavan, Lochavullin and Longsdale. However, the first two hours would be free, with standard charges thereafter. Charging would be in place Monday to Saturday from 9am until 6pm and Sundays would be free in the morning, with charging from 1pm to 6pm.
Jim Smith, head of roads, said: “This will allow people to go about their business then move out and park in the perimeter of the town.”
Councillor McCuish, who is also chairman of the Environment Development and Infrastructure committee, said: “In my humble opinion the only solution for Oban is a multi storey car park.
“I reckon it would cost £5million for that but we would get our money back.
“In my new role I will be asking officers to look at the possibility of a multi-storey car park in the town.”
The council expects the overall impact of the changes to be cost neutral. There may be a review of parking management at the end of 2018, or earlier if cost pressures become apparent.