A Somerset resident has cautioned against steep increases in parking charges, emphasising that car parks should not be treated as ‘geese that lay golden eggs’. This warning comes amid Somerset Council’s ongoing review of car parking fees, following a decision in March to conduct a comprehensive evaluation that may introduce a new tiered pricing system for both on- and off-street parking across the county.
The council has allocated £272,824 from its parking reserve to employ external consultants to gather detailed data on car park usage, with proposals expected to be published in early September.
Graham Godwin-Pearson, an Axbridge resident and former Conservative councillor, expressed concerns that parking fees could increase by up to 50 per cent in some rural areas. He warned that such hikes could place additional pressure on small businesses already facing challenges.
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In a statement delivered at a full council meeting in Bridgwater, Mr Godwin-Pearson remarked: “While the review is said to consider local circumstances rather than employing a one-size-fits-all approach, the proposed ‘five-tier’ system appears to overlook these nuances. For example, in Cheddar, a proposed increase of around 50 per cent is significant, especially given limited public transport options for those unable to walk or cycle into the village.”
He added, “Car parks are not endless sources of revenue. Increasing charges is likely to reduce demand, leading to decreased footfall for local businesses already under strain. I predict more drivers will opt to park on residential streets, and some visitors may be deterred entirely. We should be encouraging visitors, not discouraging them.”
Mr Godwin-Pearson served as the Conservative councillor for the Axevale ward on Sedgemoor District Council from 2019 to 2023, representing Axbridge, Cheddar, and surrounding villages.
He also questioned the council’s consultation process, asking whether local members, parish and town councils, businesses, and residents had been adequately engaged regarding the proposed increases. He queried what plans existed should the community broadly oppose the proposals, and whether the council would rely on local knowledge over external consultants.
In response, Councillor Richard Wilkins, portfolio holder for highways and transport, assured that further consultations will be held to address specific concerns before any changes are implemented. Representing the Curry Rivel and Langport division, Mr Wilkins acknowledged the public’s interest and concern about the proposed parking reforms.
He explained, “As a unitary authority, we inherited varied parking practices across towns and are aiming to establish a fair and consistent charging structure throughout Somerset. Feedback from recent scrutiny will inform final recommendations, which will be presented to the executive.”
Mr Wilkins emphasised that any changes would undergo a statutory consultation stage to ensure all concerns are carefully considered before adjustments to fees are made. He added, “It would be inappropriate to pre-empt decisions before the consultation process concludes.”