North Somerset Council is standing firm on its introduction of parking fees in Clevedon town centre, despite a statutory review initiated by a local businessman and an impending High Court judgment.
The controversy began after the council mistakenly issued the wrong reference number during its consultation on parking charges for three central car parks, which came into effect on July 1. This error prompted Daniel Adams, owner of Stationery House on the Triangle, to legally challenge the charges, arguing that his submitted objections were ignored due to the administrative mistake.
Council member Mark Canniford, responsible for parking, expressed confidence in the council’s position, stating, “We do not feel we will lose the case.” He explained that the council had received legal advice supporting its decision to proceed, and any equipment purchased for charging would be repurposed if the case were unsuccessful, ensuring no financial loss to the council.
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The issue became a point of contention during a council meeting, where Conservative opposition leader Michael Pryke questioned why charges continued with the court hearing imminent. Canniford replied that should the council lose the case, they would seek further legal guidance on next steps, including the handling of fines incurred during the disputed period.
Since the introduction of charges, there has been ongoing debate about their impact. Conservative councillor Luke Smith described the charges as “largely failing,” citing business closures and declining car park usage, particularly in Nailsea and Clevedon’s Great Western Road areas. However, Canniford countered these claims, noting mixed feedback from residents who find the charges reasonable, especially in Nailsea.
During the court hearing at Bristol Civic Justice Centre, the council’s barrister, Timothy Baldwin, acknowledged the administrative lapse in recording objections but argued that the council had otherwise complied with legal regulations. The court is expected to issue its judgment in writing, possibly several months away.
This is not the council’s first legal challenge over parking enforcement; they previously abandoned plans for on-street parking charges in Clevedon following threats of legal action from Clevedon Town Council. Council leader Mike Bell characterized a legal battle between the two councils as “a scandalous waste of public money,” emphasizing the desire to resolve disputes amicably.
As the High Court’s decision looms, North Somerset Council remains steadfast in its commitment to regulating parking fees, navigating both legal scrutiny and community concerns.