Bath and North East Somerset Council has not conducted any specific studies on how its recent decision to introduce parking charges in two towns affects small businesses.
Last year, the council implemented emissions-based parking fees in previously free car parks in Midsomer Norton and Radstock. The move sparked significant controversy, with local shop owners warning that these charges could “kill the town.”
At a recent council scrutiny panel, Councillor Eleanor Jackson (Westfield, Labour) questioned whether any research had been done to gauge the impact on small businesses since the charges were introduced. She shared her concerns: “I know of businesses who say it’s the last straw; they can’t take the parking charges for their staff.”
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Council officers responded that no dedicated research has been carried out locally. Instead, they rely on national data and information from organizations like the Association of Town Centre Management, which reportedly has found no direct link between low parking charges and the economic health or vibrancy of towns. They emphasized that monitoring continues and any emerging evidence will be considered moving forward.
Officials also highlighted a widely accepted belief that well-managed parking encourages high vehicle turnover, which, in turn, supports economic vitality in market towns. They acknowledged the challenge of balancing the needs of vehicle owners who want free parking with those who rely on other forms of transport such as buses and trains.
The charges were introduced in March 2025 at South Road car park in Midsomer Norton and Church Street and Waterloo Road car parks in Radstock. Following public backlash, the council allowed a two-hour free parking window as a compromise.
The system applies emissions-based parking fees, charging higher rates for more polluting vehicles. First launched in Bath in 2023, this approach stirred criticism for disproportionately affecting those unable to afford cleaner vehicles. Councillor Jackson previously likened the charges to actions of the Sheriff of Nottingham, highlighting concerns about fairness toward lower-income residents.