Margaret Hodge, the culture minister, has given her approval for two Royal Parks to have parking charges within London.
Now motorists that want to park in southwest London at Bushy Park or Richmond Park will need to pay £1.50 if they want to park for an hour. Politicians and residents have fought against the proposals stating that the tax will wrongfully misuse free green space.
Shadow minister for London, Justine Greening, stated that it will ruin the park, as the charge will make it too expensive for families with children that need to bring their cars for prams and to assist pensioners.
The Royal Parks deputy chief executive, Colin Buttery, stated that with a maximum charge of £3 per day at Richmond Park, and £2 per day at Bushy Park, the charges are the same as one might pay for coffee and are favourable to charges at other like amenities.
Additionally, the speed limit within the park will be reduced from 30mph to 20mph and private hire cars will be allowed into the parks.
The parking fees will become active at the end of the year if the parliament approves. The income generated will be used to help maintain roads and car parks.
