PARKING charges will be reintroduced in Ilkley next month - but health and social care workers can continue to park for free.

The decision by Bradford Council to reintroduce enforcement of parking restrictions was taken following consultation with other local authorities and guidance received from the British Parking Association and The Local Government Association.

Bradford Council has agreed the following:

• W/C 24 May - Warning notices to be issued to vehicles observed parked in contravention.

• W/C 1 June – Recommence bus lane enforcement, issuing of Penalty Charge Notices on-street and off-street.

• W/C 15 June - Parking charges reinstated and warning notices issued for one week for non-compliance of pay and display related contraventions.

• W/C 22 June - Penalty Charge Notices issued for all contraventions including pay and display.

The workers who will benefit from free parking are health and social care workers, people working for the NHS and Covid-19 volunteers. This includes people who work in care homes and home care workers.

They need to register their car registration number and send proof of their employment to NHSparking@bradford.gov.uk. Further information on how to register and who can apply can be found at https://www.bradford.gov.uk/emergencies/council-service-disruptions/important-updates-and-guidance-about-coronavirus/

Approval of a virtual permit request will allow the named vehicle to use all Bradford Council car parks without charge. This concession will be available over the entire district all days and hours of operation.

Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “By continuing to provide free parking we are supporting the critical role played by NHS workers and carers and enable them to continue to provide essential services to our most vulnerable residents.

“As the district moves slowly towards the easing of lockdown guidelines and the Government announcement that retail can start again from 15 June, it is essential that residents and businesses can start to go about their normal day as usual. The return of parking services will encourage motorists to park more responsibly. Disabled bays will be available for badge holders who require access close to the location they are visiting, safety will be improved due to the enforcement of dangerous and anti-social parking on pavements and commercial vehicles will be able to load and unload.

“We are informing people well ahead of when the changes will be made to make sure that everyone is aware and to give time for those eligible to apply for a virtual permit. We will also be issuing messages closer to the date each change is being introduced.”