Somerset Sunday Parking Charges Delayed Until Autumn

Drivers in Somerset can continue to enjoy free Sunday parking for a little longer, as the introduction of charges has been delayed until autumn. Currently, many streets and parking spaces remain free on Sundays, but the council had planned to implement new fees across the county by late summer.

Somerset Council’s plans to expand parking charges—including a county-wide Sunday fee, charges for on-street limited waiting bays, and new fees in previously free car parks—have hit a snag due to staffing shortages and other operational issues.

Conservative Councillor Bob Filmer pressed the Liberal Democrat-led council executive for clarity on the progress since the proposals were included in the February budget. He raised concerns about the absence of public consultation to date, the potential financial impact of the delay on council revenue, and how local residents and businesses will be involved moving forward.

While some motorists will welcome the postponement as it saves them money during weekend outings, the council confirmed it is exploring alternative resources to move the plan forward. A public consultation on Sunday parking charges is now expected by the end of summer, with implementation pushed to October.

Cllr Filmer criticised the council’s handling of the issue, stating, “This confirms what many feared—new parking charges are coming, but the process is behind schedule, under-resourced, and lacking transparency. These decisions will have significant economic effects on our town centres, so proper public consultation is essential before any changes are imposed.”

Though the fees will help generate much-needed income for the cash-strapped council, the delay is a temporary relief for drivers and tourists visiting Somerset. Residents and business owners are encouraged to participate in the upcoming consultation when it opens later this summer to shape the future of Sunday parking charges.