A local business owner criticizes Somerset Council’s proposed parking fee changes, citing potential harm to town center businesses.
Somerset Council wants to charge for parking. They plan to add fees at free car parks, and overnight parking would cost money everywhere. Sunday parking prices would become the same, and on-street parking would have fees in town centers.
Susie thinks the council does not see the long-term effects. She believes these changes hurt town center businesses, giving people another reason to avoid the town.
Hospitality and entertainment will suffer most. Taunton’s council car parks might charge on Sundays and overnight. Social media is full of talk about parking costs.
People are already discussing the changes. Susie says listen to people and their social media posts. People say they simply will not shop in the town. She wonders if the town can even improve.
Somerset Council will discuss this February 24, 2025. Public input will follow if executives approve.