Parking fees in Edinburgh may surge, with city center spots potentially hitting £9 hourly under a new budget proposal.
The Labour administration created this budget. It funds new schools and helps with temporary housing costs. They propose an 8% council tax increase, meaning Band D would pay £1,563.51 in 2025/26.
George St, St Andrew Square, and other spots will cost £9, a 9.76% rise. Stafford St and Melville St areas will jump to £8, over an 11% increase.
The West End will see a rise to £6.80 per hour, over 13%. New Town parking could reach £6 hourly. Bruntsfield and other areas might be £4.50 each hour.
South Queensferry parking might rise to £1.50. Extended zones could hit £4.20 hourly. Bus and coach parking may reach £9.80 per hour, and these fees could fund street improvements.
Around £12.5 million could improve pavements and roads. Another £5 million could help kids travel to school safely and also make some areas feel safer.
Labour must discuss the budget with other parties as they need support to pass it. A previous draft suggested an 8% council tax rise, and the SNP and Lib Dems agreed. Conservatives want a 7% increase. Greens want to hike it by 10%. The council will vote on this budget. The meeting is on Thursday, February 20.