Bath and North East Somerset Council has unveiled plans to increase the cost of parking permits by up to 20%, alongside introducing fees linked to vehicle size and emissions. The proposed changes, announced on Friday, October 17, would affect permits within Resident Parking Zones (RPZs) across Bath.
The council aims to encourage safer and more sustainable road use by charging higher fees for larger vehicles, which pose a greater risk to pedestrians and cyclists on narrow streets. This strategy aligns with their Vision Zero goal to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on local roads. Research highlights that pedestrians and cyclists are 44% more likely to suffer severe injuries or fatalities in collisions involving large vehicles—a figure that rises to over 80% for children.
Under the new proposals, the current discount for electric vehicle (EV) permit holders would be removed, reflecting a broader restructuring of charges based on environmental impact. Council officials note that permit fees have remained unchanged for over a decade despite rising maintenance and enforcement costs related to RPZs.
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Councillor Joel Hist, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport Strategy, said: “We’ve aligned these consultations so residents, particularly in Lambridge, can consider all implications, including costs, when reviewing the proposed RPZ. Many residents seek solutions to commuter parking issues, and introducing these zones can improve safety and encourage sustainable travel.”
The council further plans a phased increase in visitor parking permits, raising the daily rate from £1 to £2.50 by 2028.
Public consultations are now open for the draft Lambridge RPZ, which would extend from Valley View Road to London Road, including an expansion of the Walcot RPZ into Grosvenor Place. This consultation period runs until Friday, November 14, with additional RPZ consultations planned for Locksbrook and the Audley Grove area later in the autumn.
Residents can submit feedback online or seek assistance by calling 01225 39 40 25. Permit holders will receive updates via MiPermit and email, with Parking Services available at 01225 477133 for support.