Drivers across Somerset can continue to enjoy free Sunday parking for now, but this welcome reprieve is only temporary. Somerset Council had planned to introduce parking charges on Sundays countywide by the end of summer. However, those plans have been delayed due to staffing shortages and other logistical issues.
The council confirmed that despite the delay, Sunday parking charges and other new fees—such as on-street charges in limited waiting bays and fees in currently free car parks—are still expected to be implemented later this year.
Conservative Councillor Bob Filmer pressed the Liberal Democrat-led council for clarity on the progress since adopting the revised parking charges in February as part of the annual budget. He questioned the lack of public consultation to date, the financial impact of the delay on the council’s budget, and how residents and businesses will be involved moving forward.
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While the delay offers some relief to motorists and visitors enjoying a Sunday out in Somerset, the council acknowledges that staffing challenges have slowed the process. Efforts are underway to find alternative resources to move the initiative forward. A public consultation on Sunday parking charges is now anticipated by the end of summer, with plans to proceed in October.
Cllr Filmer expressed concerns over the lack of transparency and resources, emphasizing the economic significance of the proposed charges on town centres. He urged the public to engage actively once the consultation begins.
Though introducing these charges is expected to provide much-needed revenue for the financially stretched council, it is likely to be unwelcome news for drivers and tourists. The council encourages residents and businesses to participate in the forthcoming consultation to have their voices heard.