Bradford Council Offers Compromise on Ilkley Parking Plans

Thursday, 25 September 2025 10:57

Following strong opposition to proposed parking changes in Ilkley, Bradford Council has put forward a revised plan that keeps a free one-hour option in parts of the town.

Bradford Council has responded to public concern over its Ilkley parking proposals by putting forward an alternative approach that retains free short-stay parking in selected areas.

Original plans — agreed as part of a council budget decision — included scrapping the one-hour free on-street parking concession, extending charging hours, adding Bank Holiday charges, and limiting Blue Badge holders to maximum stay periods.

However, after receiving more than 600 objections and a petition signed by nearly 1,500 residents, along with opposition from Ilkley Business Improvement District (BID) and the Town Council, the council is revisiting the scheme.

A report due to go before the Executive Committee on Thursday, 2 October, recommends that free one-hour parking is retained on New Brook Street, Kings Road and Cowpasture Road — a total of 161 spaces within walking distance of the town centre. Evening and Bank Holiday charges would still apply more widely under the revised plan.

Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said the new proposal strikes a balance:
“Ilkley’s a fantastic town and it’s important we maintain it as a jewel in the crown of the district. We recognise the strength of feeling around the free hour, which helps people make those quick local trips. This compromise retains over 150 spaces close to the town centre. I’d like to thank everyone who fed back their concerns, and I hope this shows we’ve listened.”

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