Businesses and residents oppose proposed parking permits

Business owners and residents in Glasgow’s east end have raised concerns over proposed parking permits.

If approved by Glasgow City Council, the scheme would see businesses charged more than £1,000 per year for each staff member who drives to work.

One of those potentially affected is Coia’s Cafe, a long-established family business in Dennistoun.

Owner Carlo Coia said the proposals could have serious implications for both staffing and future investment.

The parking permits will bring affect the area, locals have said. STV News

“I invest a lot in the area as well, so my staff count will probably double by the end of this year, which means I’m looking at over one hundred staff,” he said. “But it’s also going to affect my future projects because many people who want to work in this area might reconsider.

“There are numerous fantastic job opportunities and businesses, not just businesses, but a lifestyle as well here. We want to bring the east end of Glasgow to life.”

Residents will face new charges under the plans. STV News

Residents would also face new charges under the plans, with permit costs based on vehicle emissions. Cars producing between 0 and 50 grams of CO₂ per kilometre would pay £80 a year, rising to £150 for vehicles emitting up to 150 grams.

Cars producing up to 190 grams would pay £170 annually, while higher-emission vehicles could be charged more than £200.

Additional permits at the same address would cost extra, with prices increasing for each one.

Locals say the proposals would worsen the cost of living crisis and fail to address parking pressures in the area.

“I think I’d rather jostle for a parking space than pay £220 for one,” one resident said. Another claimed evening congestion could not be blamed on commuters. “In the evenings it’s even busier, so they can’t say it’s commuters causing it. They’re basically just trying to make some money out of us.”

Glasgow City Council said controlled parking zones have worked well elsewhere in the city.

A spokesperson said: “Parking controls have proven successful in other parts of the city. They help manage streets better, make them safer for all road users, improve access for service vehicles, and contribute to a cleaner, more manageable local environment.”

The public consultation on the proposals is open until 23 January and has been extended by two weeks to account for the festive break.