Somerset Council faces £480k car park changes, covering resurfacing, staffing and machines with plans needing approval.
This covers things like resurfacing and signs. It also includes paying for machines. Staffing will also cost money, about £236,400 each year. They need enforcement officers, a car park engineer, and a parking analyst.
The total cost for everything is £486,400. They haven’t talked to people about the parking plans yet. If approved, a consultation will happen later. The plans could start October 1, 2025.
The first six months could earn £464,257. A full year could bring in £623,343. The initial costs might reduce the benefits though, so they added a 20% safety fund.
If the council rejects the plans, they will be underfunded. This could hurt existing income, as they need £66 million for funding next year.
A study shows changes won’t help any group. Disabled, religious, and poor people face bad impacts. The council will consult disabled people too, as some rely on cars because of disabilities.
The council will discuss the plan on February 24, 2025. The meeting is at County Hall.