Parking? Should it be a free-for-all?

Can someone explain Parking Provisions as they relate to Planning Regulations to me?

On-road 'parking' is raised as one of the most contentious subjects in Whitchurch and creates a wide range of opinions from many different viewpoints. Many believe that more should be provided, while others argue the opposite.

What is generally agreed by Planning rules is that new housing should have space for vehicles incorporated, so as not to add pressures to our over-crowded road systems. Roads are in place primarily for the movement of people and goods, including for personal travel, commercial services and emergency vehicles. They are not provided as private parking spaces, although some have specific areas allocated for parking.

As a result there are Planning standards laid down for incorporation of off-road parking into developments. This may be in the form of garage spaces or off-road hard-standings, or a combination of both.

So what happens when someone wants to convert a garage (a vehicle space) into a bedroom or office and they then submit a planning application?

I have no problems with such conversions except that they displace 'parking/vehicle' spaces – but should not part of a planning application require the provision of a replacement off-road space?

Or doesn't it matter?

Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council seem to think not as they have allowed such applications, which add more pressure to our roads.

So if it doesn't matter, why do we have any standards being imposed in the first place?

Which raises the question: Should parking be a complete free-for-all?