Council considers adding Sunday parking fees to equalize parking costs and generate revenue.
New plans might add charges to currently free car parks. It came up at an Executive Budget Meeting on March 3rd. The council wants free 30-minute parking for new street bays. This should help businesses by freeing up spaces.
The goal? Make parking fees consistent and fair. This ensures the parking service pays for itself. The money covers staff and tickets, and also pays to maintain the car parks well.
Right now, parking rates differ a lot. There are 200 council car parks. Somerset Council hadn’t reviewed this since 2023.
A council member, Richard Wilkins, said they listened. He heard concerns from the public and businesses. They want short-term parking options and faster turnover for visitors. These changes support businesses at night.
He mentioned unfair parking differences across towns. Williton charges the usual rate on Sundays. Wellington offers free Sunday parking. Wiveliscombe has free parking all week. Wincanton makes their car park free too. Wilkins asks if some towns should subsidize others.
He wants fairness across the county’s parking. Extra money from fees would help the system. It can then fully pay for itself, and public input is needed before final choices get made.