Somerset Council considers ending free evening and weekend parking. Consistent fees are desired. Changes may start this autumn.
These changes could start in autumn. Parking charges would extend past 6 pm on weekdays and Sunday parking would cost money all day. Free parking might disappear in some areas. Conservatives worry this hurts Somerset’s economy and think it will burden families.
Liberal Democrats say changes ensure fairness and state consistent charges maintain parking services. In April 2023, Somerset Council was formed and it inherited different rates from old councils. These covered two hundred car parks and streets.
The council has not reviewed parking systems, which causes different charges for drivers. Four main changes are planned from October 1. Overnight parking could cost £1 county-wide. Sunday parking could also start costing money.
Some free car parks could charge £2 daily and limited waiting bays may charge too. Twenty minutes could be free. Each hour after could cost £1, with a full day rate potentially reaching £3.
The council expects enforcement costs, potentially reaching £198,000 between 2025 and 2026. This money may fund other ideas, for example, year-round charges in Burnham-on-Sea. New parking permits and plate recognition could also happen.
More charges could boost income by £464,000, which the council can use for public services. They think income may reach £1.1 million in 2026/27 and by 2027/28, it could rise to £1.8 million.
Councillor Wilkins says parking has costs. He wants fair, uniform fees across Somerset. Extra money helps the parking service, so it can then run and be maintained well.
Towns could use tax money for free parking, which would keep parking free for locals. Conservatives started a petition against fees. They say fees hurt Somerset businesses.
A spokesperson feels this is another unfair cost and mentions a large tax increase already exists. This could harm shops and struggling areas. Tourism and hospitality might also suffer, so they ask Somerset Council to rethink this plan.
The council will discuss this in detail at a meeting set for Monday at 1 pm. The executive committee will meet two days later.
If approved, a public consultation will follow. Final changes could begin October 1. The council sets its budget on March 5 and it will include all new fees and charges.