Somerset Council is considering introducing new parking charges in parts of rural Somerset, a move that has raised concerns among local residents about potential negative effects on shoppers, visitors, families and hikers.
In March, the council’s executive committee initiated a comprehensive review of Somerset’s car parking charges, which could lead to a tiered pricing structure for both on-street and off-street parking. To support this review, £272,824 has been allocated from the council’s parking reserve to hire external consultants tasked with collecting data on car park usage across the county. More detailed proposals are expected to be presented to councillors during the autumn.
Graham Godwin-Pearson, a resident of Axbridge, cautioned at the council’s executive meeting in Taunton on 5 August that introducing parking charges could adversely affect his town, the nearby village of Cheddar, and other Mendip Hills communities. He stressed the importance of basing any changes on solid evidence demonstrating a clear benefit to these rural areas.
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Mr Godwin-Pearson stated: “Applying charges where parking is currently free might seem sensible, but it risks deterring the very shoppers, visitors, families and hikers who support local retail and hospitality sectors. It is crucial that any proposed pricing tiers are backed by robust data on occupancy, turnover, financial performance, and local economic impact. Such information should be made available for scrutiny by parish and town councils, businesses and the public before recommendations are finalized.”
He further expressed concerns that town and parish councils might only be informally involved in the review process rather than through formal consultation, seeking clarity on when and how any engagement has taken place and whether responses will be published alongside the forthcoming report.
Mr Godwin-Pearson previously served as the Conservative councillor for the Axevale ward on Sedgemoor District Council from 2019 to 2023, representing Axbridge, Cheddar and surrounding villages.
Many small businesses in Somerset have been facing financial pressures recently due to rises in business rates and employer national insurance contributions, including establishments like the Cider Barn in Draycott and the Petruth Paddocks campsite near Cheddar.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for highways and transport, emphasised the council’s commitment to supporting rural businesses and tourism-dependent areas. He commented: “The parking principles approved in March recognise the need to sustain town centre vitality, support local communities, improve accessibility and promote sustainable travel. We acknowledge that rural and village locations present unique needs compared to urban centres.”
Councillor Wilkins added that the forthcoming report in September will outline proposed tier allocations for existing chargeable car parks and make recommendations regarding free car parks and on-street parking where appropriate. The report will also detail plans for engagement and consultation ahead of any final implementation.
Additionally, the council’s climate, environment and place scrutiny committee will discuss the proposals on Thursday, 3 September.