CAR parks may soon be privately managed after St Albans District Council announced it will be advertising for companies to join a public private partnership (PPP).

The decision would mean private companies collecting parking income worth £759,000 a year to the council.

Several car parks require substantial investment over the next few years but with limited council funds available, a PPP is being sought to pay for modernisation and refurbishment.

Transport portfolio holder Malcolm MacMillan said: "We need our car parks to be up to date and inviting if we are to be able to attract visitors and shoppers. The district council cannot achieve this alone so we must look for potential partners in the private sector who we can constructively work with."

The move also got the backing of Conservative group leader Julian Daly. He said: "This policy formed part of our manifesto and we are glad to see it finally coming to fruition."

October 10, 2001 19:47

Aaron Bateman