Drivers in Bath with larger vehicles will soon face increased charges for parking permits as Bath and North East Somerset Council prepares to introduce size-based pricing. This move, often referred to as an “SUV tax,” aims to encourage the use of smaller, safer, and cleaner vehicles by charging a surcharge on permits based on vehicle size while offering discounts for smaller cars.
Council cabinet member Joel Hirst explained that research indicates larger vehicles like SUVs present a higher risk in collisions, especially to vulnerable groups such as children and cyclists. He stated, “By introducing size-based permit charges, we are encouraging the use of smaller, safer and cleaner vehicles.”
The new scheme will come into effect from 25 August. Under the proposals, owners of smaller vehicles such as a Smart car could receive a £20 annual discount on their residents’ parking permit. Conversely, drivers of larger cars like the Land Rover Discovery or Ford Galaxy will incur an additional charge of just over £41. The highest surcharge of £112 will be applied to owners of the largest model of the Ford Transit van.
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These size-based charges will be added on top of the existing emissions-based costs that residents already pay. When applying for a parking permit, vehicle pollution data will be checked automatically, with an option for applicants to submit photographic evidence if data is unavailable.
Alongside these changes, the council announced a general 20% increase in residents’ permit fees and planned phased rises in visitor permit costs. There are concerns that existing resident parking zones have shifted parking issues to other parts of Bath, which these measures seek to address.
Additional charges will be higher for second vehicles at the same address, while permits will continue to be free for Blue Badge holders.
Bath and North East Somerset Council also intends to introduce new parking fees on Weston Road and increase charges at park and ride locations from £3 to £4 for those not using the bus service. Cllr Hirst commented, “These changes will help us manage parking in a way that supports road safety, sustainability and fairness for all road users.”