THE FUTURE of a controversial car park appears to be 'positive' after promising talks between industry reps and campaigners.

The site on Oastler Road has long been a cause for concern after its previous owner, Birmingham-based Smart Parking, faced accusations of unfair parking fines of £100.

But now the responsibility belongs to UK Car Parking Management (CPM), working on behalf of Manchester-based Saltaire Investments.

Resident Ludi Simpson, backed by councillor Vick Jenkins (Lab, Shipley) and MP Philip Davies (Cons), handed over an 800-strong petition to the operator.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Now CPM's Nick Ballamy will be proposing to the landlord that a simple pay-and-display system, without need for entering registration numbers, is introduced; offering a 20-minute free period and a fixed price overnight ticket.

Will Hurley, CEO of car parking trade association IPC, promised that at least a week’s notice of the new rules will be given to all shops. Until the new rules are in place, motorists will pay on an honesty basis without enforcement measures.

We have kept the problems in politicians’ minds, and now we have in our sights a new set of rules that most people will be happy with. There will be no cameras.”

- Campaigner Ludi Simpson

Mr Simpson, a long-time advocate for fair rulings at Oastler Road, told the Telegraph & Argus: “This car park supports a vibrant row of shops on the main Bingley Road out of Shipley.

"Uncertainty and the fear of a return to predatory fining by the previous operator have been keeping people away this past year. We have kept the problems in politicians’ minds, and now we have in our sights a new set of rules that most people will be happy with. There will be no cameras.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Local politicians say it was an "extremely positive" meeting all round.

The industry officials took time to meet Dan Pelissier, manager of Saltaire Co-op, David Pedley and Elaine Cowburn, both residents of Oastler Road flats and Maggie Pearse, another resident nearby. In recent months the car park has been beset with litter - the responsibility of the landlord - but shops and residents will clear it up to get the new regime on the road.

Councillor Jenkins explained: "With involvement from the trade association IPC we have made real strides today for more public friendly conditions. The main one having the car park enforced by wardens rather than camera. It has been a real win for Ludi and the Saltaire residents."

While Mr Davies added: "I am pleased to say that the meeting was extremely positive, and we found a willingness on behalf of the new operator to take on board the suggestions of local residents and businesses. Obviously I will keep a close eye on how it develops but I am very hopeful we will avoid the terrible problems we saw under the previous operator."