New Somerset parking plans may cost the council £480,000. Startup and staffing are key expenses, impacting vulnerable groups.
They will need new staff too. Two officers will enforce parking rules, and a car park engineer and analyst are needed. Staffing costs around £236,400 each year. Total yearly cost could reach £486,400.
The council hasn’t asked people what they think yet. A consultation may happen if the council says yes. The rules could start October 1, 2025.
The first six months could bring in £464,257. The next full year could add £623,343. The initial costs might cut into the gains. They added 20% extra to cover unexpected stuff.
If the council rejects this, they could lose money. They need £66 million for next year. These car park changes won’t help anyone, says a report. Disabled people, religious groups, plus the poor will be hurt.
The council will talk to disabled people specifically. Some rely on cars due to their disabilities. The council will talk about it on February 24, 2025. They will meet at County Hall.