New parking proposals to boost investment in car parks and parking services
Monday, October 12, 2026
Proposed changes to parking charges will see money reinvested to improve parking across the district. The plans include investment in flexible digital payment systems, pay and display equipment, resurfacing car parks and roads offering on street parking, and improved maintenance and safety.
If approved, the move will see the removal of the two-hour free parking offer after a review found it made little difference to footfall in city and town centres. The scheme is estimated to have cost the Council around £1.8 million a year and has subsequently limited the funds needed to maintain the district's car parks and parking services.
“We’ve inherited a parking offer that the Council was never able to afford and was unsustainable and irresponsible. This has resulted in the whole community effectively subsidising parking costs. And it is putting services that residents rely on at risk.
“We’re taking the action needed to plug the black hole in our budget. So we can start maintaining our car parks better. Improve our whole parking offer. And do the right thing for local taxpayers.”
Cllr Keith Anderson
Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Planning
If approved, the proposed changes could raise in the region of £2.5m and would also see:
The introduction of a free 30-minute period for on-street parking
The removal of the 15p charge for paying online for parking
Competitive off-street charges
The introduction of a fee for permit parking to cover administration costs
Cllr Anderson explained: "Council-run car parks will remain very competitive for parking when compared with both private operators and other major destinations across our region. The 30 minutes free on-street parking and removal of the convenience charge are affordable and practical and will help motorists and businesses.
“Put together this is a balanced and responsible parking offer that delivers value for money. It makes sure we can improve these services for our residents. And can support the businesses who rely on good quality parking for their customers whilst not financially impinging on other essential council services funding.”
The Council will also consult on introducing a £1 evening parking charge across all Local Authority car parks. This is in response to the increasing demand for parking at this time.
The report is being discussed by the Council’s key decision makers on Tuesday 20 October at 5.30pm. The meeting can be watched live or later on the Council’s YouTube channel.