Free parking could end across West Somerset towns. New fees aim to address a £66 million budget shortfall.
Also, Minehead might get on-street parking fees. It could cost £1 per hour. Overnight fees might appear in some car parks too. These are in Minehead, Dunster, and other towns. Currently, you only pay during the day there.
The council faces a big budget problem. They need to find £66 million. It’s the second year they’ve struggled this way. They are run by the Liberal Democrats. Last year, they sold things and cut jobs. They avoided bankruptcy then.
Now, things are even tighter to do. More job cuts happened recently. The government allowed a tax increase. Council tax can rise by 7.5 percent. The council still needs more money, though. They are looking at new parking fees.
The council will discuss this soon. A committee meeting happens next week. If approved, new fees begin mid-2025. They could raise £464,000 at first. Future years could bring £1.76 million.
A council person said this creates “consistency”. They want the same rules across Somerset. There are over 200 council car parks. Right now, rates and rules differ a lot. The council person stated the new rules ensure self-funding. This covers staff, tickets, upkeep, and management.
They also said it’s fairer for everyone in Somerset. Parking laws stop using it to simply make money. But, extra income can help other services. This money could support services usually paid by taxes.
The council person added that parking helps financially. Overnight fees evenly spread costs. Users will assist the service. Another council meeting follows on February 26. If approved, the public can give input. Councilor Richard Wilkins wants fair and uniform charges. This helps the service stay afloat.