Bridgwater’s mayor slams Somerset Council’s new parking plans, calling them greedy and harmful to the night economy.
Somerset Council says this is the first review since 2023. They want parking to fund itself, claiming these steps will ensure that.
Bridgwater’s Mayor strongly criticized the plans, calling them “appalling greed.” She believes parking won’t improve and thinks it will hurt the nighttime economy.
Councillor Solomon wants local control of parking so Bridgwater could customize parking for local needs. He suggested two hours of free parking to help the town center.
Eastover Community car park might start charging. Sunday and overnight fees may appear in other lots, including Barclay Street and Northgate Yard.
On-street parking charges could also start, costing £1 per hour. Daily income could be £3 per bay, and Bridgwater could gain 619 paid parking spaces.
Councillor Smedley believes uniformity is unnecessary. Local control lets Bridgwater earn money. Other towns could set their own rates and even offer free parking.
Bridgwater recently raised council tax by 39%, partly due to asset transfers from Somerset Council.