Plans for making Panshanger Park a sustainable country park and nature reserve are coming into fruition, with the recruitment of two assistant park rangers to manage Thieves Lane car park.
The appointment of the assistant park rangers means that the proposed parking charge for the car park can now be implemented. In addition to managing the car park, the assistant park rangers will also be on hand to answers queries and provide visitors with information about the park.
Michael Charlton, estates manager at Tarmac, owners of Panshanger Park, said: “The parking charge is being introduced to help support the sustainability and management of the park. The money raised from the car park will be reinvested into the park to help fund our long-term improvement plans.”
The new charge will be introduced from Thursday 15th July, with a flat day rate of £2.50 for all vehicles, including motorbikes and scooters.
Initially the parking charge will be in place between 08:30 – 17:30, Thursday – Monday, with the intention to charge seven days a week in the near future. People visiting outside these hours will be able to park free of charge.
Payment for parking will be taken by the assistant park rangers using a handheld card reader, meaning they will only be able to accept payment by credit or debit card. Cash payments will not be accepted.
Jez Perkins, estates manager at Maydencroft, who manage the day to day running of Panshanger Park, said: ‘Over the last 18 months the park owners and management team have invested heavily in the park with the introduction of new fencing to protect some of the more sensitive habitats such as the River Mimram, new information boards, welcome leaflet and code of conduct.
“With the planning application for the new car park also currently being considered, we now feel that it is the right time to introduce a small parking charge at Thieves Lane car park.”
There are currently no plans to offer a reduced rate for locals. For people visiting more than once in a day the fee will apply for each time they use the car park.
