The following message has been issued by the City of London, City Commons today about new car parking charges at the car parks at Riddlesdown Common and Farthing Downs:
"We are introducing car parking charges from Monday 25th January for the car parks at Farthing Downs and Riddlesdown.
The Coulsdon Commons are a charity funded privately from investments by the City of London Corporation. This private funding has been hit really hard over the last few years (even more so last year) meaning our budget for running these important sites that are part of London’s newest National Nature Reserve has been significantly reduced.
To continue providing our conservation management and visitor amenities, tough decisions have had to be made to ensure staff and essential services are not affected. For the first time in over 130 years, visitors will be asked to help contribute to the care of these sites to keep them pristine and maintained to the highest standard. Car parking payments will generate some revenue to offset the deficit in our budget and contribute towards costs such as the provision of dog waste removal for visitors totaling £35,000 each year alone.
You can pay by contactless credit/debit card, mobile phone or via the RingGo app. For Monday to Friday, prices will be £1.50 for up to 2 hours or £3 for all day. During weekends and public/bank holidays it will be £3 daily. Disabled drivers can park for free if they clearly display a valid blue badge and register their vehicle by email ([email protected]) or phone (01785 336780).
The money raised will allow us to look after the Coulsdon Commons and protect these important urban green spaces for wildlife and people.
For further information on car parking including monthly/annual permits please visit: https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/.../parking-at-farthing...."
If you have further questions, do take a look at the link above which includes responses to FAQs.
