Somerset visitors and residents may soon need to pay for parking on Sundays in town centre car parks, following new proposals from Somerset Council. The council recently completed a public consultation with the aim of introducing a consistent approach to Sunday parking charges across all county-run car parks.
Currently, Sunday parking is largely free or offers limited charges, but the proposed changes would mirror existing weekday rates. Somerset Council estimates that this initiative could generate approximately £730,000 in additional annual revenue. The funds raised would be reinvested into essential local services and infrastructure.
However, the proposals have attracted considerable criticism. Councillors from various political backgrounds have voiced concerns, with some describing the move as an “anti-motorist attack by a cash-hungry council.” Many fear this could deter visitors and negatively impact local businesses.
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If approved, the new Sunday charges will come into effect following debates scheduled for early and mid-December, with the council’s executive committee discussing the proposals on December 3 and a final decision expected on December 17.
Below is a summary of the proposed Sunday parking fees in key Somerset Council car parks:
- Barclay Street: £0.60 for 30 minutes; £4.60 for all day
- Blake: £1.40 for 1 hour; £4.60 for 4 hours
- Eastover (short stay): £0.60 for 30 minutes; £1.90 for 2 hours
- Market Street: £1.20 for 1 hour; £6.90 all day
- West Quay: £1.00 for 1 hour; £5.80 all day
- Bath Street: £0.80 for 1 hour; £3.30 for 4 hours
- Cattle Market: £1.30 for 1 hour; £6.80 all day
- Commercial Road: £1.30 for 1 hour; £4.40 all day
- Ash Meadows: £1.40 for 1 hour; £4.40 for 3 hours
- Yeovil South Street: £0.80 for 30 minutes; £1.50 for 1 hour
The complete list of charges includes varying rates depending on the duration and location, from short stays to all-day parking. Motorists planning to visit Somerset on Sundays should prepare for potential fees, subject to the council’s final decision.