Bath and North East Somerset Council is considering new parking permit fees that would charge owners of larger vehicles more, while offering discounts to those with smaller, cleaner cars. This move builds on the council’s existing emissions-based parking charges, which adjust costs according to a vehicle’s pollution levels.
Under the proposed scheme, owners of compact cars like the Smart would receive an annual £20 discount on their permits. Conversely, drivers of large vans such as the biggest Ford Transit model could see their fees rise by £112 annually.
The council cites safety concerns as a key reason for the changes. “Studies suggest that larger and taller vehicles like SUVs and vans are more likely to cause increased injuries or fatalities in collisions with pedestrians—especially children—and cyclists,” the council explained. Factors contributing to this risk include higher bonnet heights and larger blind spots.
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This is the second consultation on the proposals; nearly 500 residents responded last year, with opinions evenly split—50% in favor, 44% opposed, and 6% undecided. Joel Hirst, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport Strategy, emphasized public involvement: “We want to hear as many voices as possible, which is why we’re carrying out another formal consultation.”
Hirst added that managing parking fees directly influences road safety, fairness, and the council’s ability to maintain essential services. “Higher charges for larger vehicles, combined with discounts for smaller ones, will encourage more residents to choose safer, smaller, and cleaner vehicles—helping to improve air quality,” he said.
However, some residents have voiced concerns over the impact on large families, particularly those driving people-carriers. For example, a Ford Galaxy’s permit fee increase could be more than double that of some luxury cars like the Aston Martin Vantage V8.
Resident Parking Zones (RPZs) already cover much of Bath, and while some believe they have moved parking issues to other neighborhoods, plans to expand these zones remain contentious.
The ongoing consultation also seeks feedback on other potential changes, such as increasing visitor RPZ permit fees over the next three years, requiring valid MOT certificates for permit eligibility, and raising the cost of parking at Bath’s Park & Ride facilities for non-bus users from £3 to £4.
Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Communications and Community, highlighted the Park & Ride service’s benefits: “Our three Park & Ride sites offer fast, regular, and convenient transit into the city and provide free parking for those using the bus service. We want residents’ views on proposals to increase parking charges for motorists who don’t use the bus.”
The consultation closes at 5pm on 18 June.