Councils across the UK are plotting higher parking charges as they come under pressure to achieve clean-air targets and plug gaps in their tightening finances.
Planned changes also include premiums for larger vehicles, tougher parking controls, possible reductions in the numbers of on-street spaces and the introduction of parking charges in free-to-park areas in many major towns and cities.
These developments aren’t surprising, given that on- and off-street parking charges generated more than £1 billion for local authorities last year – an increase of 8% on 2023.
Among the latest to announce changes to its car parking charges is Haringey Council in London. It is consulting on plans to replace the daily parking permit for visitors that costs £5 with an hourly charge of £1.20, meaning that motorists parking in areas with parking controls lasting 14 hours would have to pay £17.
The council claims the increase is necessary because the permits are being misused. Local campaigners argue that it’s simply a revenue-raising measure.
Some councils have already acted on their plans. Bristol City Council has more than doubled the price of first-vehicle parking permits for residents from £56 to £124. In November last year, City of Wolverhampton Council, citing “significant financial challenges”, doubled its car park charges, meaning that in some locations motorists are now paying £9 for a maximum stay of 12 hours, up from £4.50 previously.
“The new charges are expected to generate an additional £1m a year,” said a Wolverhampton council spokesperson.
Meanwhile, Dudley Council, Breckford Council in Norfolk, South Gloucestershire Council and more are planning to end free parking.
At present, motorists can park for free in Dudley Council’s car parks for two hours. Under the new plans, they would be charged from £1.20 for one hour to £2.50 for two.
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