Shepway Council is urging people to take part in its official consultation over parking proposals following a poor turn-out at the recent parish polls.

The polls held in Folkestone, Hythe and Sandgate, had been called by opponents to the proposals but total turn-out was only 6.67 per cent across the three areas - meaning that only 3,258 people voted out of possible 48,585.

Cllr Malcolm Dearden, Cabinet Member for Traffic Management and Parking, said the council's public consultation would present fairer opportunities for all people to give their views.

"People will be able study the proposals in detail, see how they may affect where they live and work, have time to talk to officers about any concerns and comment fully on them. We have indicated throughout that the proposals would be subject to public consultation and we would urge people to make the most of this opportunity."

He described the Poll turn-out as poor but rejected accusations that the council was responsible for the lack of votes cast.

"It should be remembered that our role is to administer the poll on behalf of the people who called it. We had three calls for a poll in Folkestone, Hythe and Sandgate and held those polls properly, professionally and in accordance with the law. Any criticism about of the lack of publicity needs to be directed to those people who called for a poll in the first place.

"Although calling for a parish poll is a democratic right, it has proved costly for the three councils involved who will have to meet the expense of the poll for their area even though this cost has been reduced by Shepway District Council.

"It is a waste of money when the council is giving people the chance to have their say by way of voluntary and statutory consultation which shall not be at the cost of their own town or parish council."

Consultation will take place in phases across the district over the next three years. The first phase looks at proposals for part of Folkestone. People in this area will be notified by letter.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©