Somerset residents are invited to share their views on the proposed introduction of Sunday parking charges across all council-run car parks. The public consultation launched today, Monday September 8, and will remain open until October 20.
Currently, Somerset’s more than 200 council-operated car parks are subject to varying charging policies, reflecting the legacy of the five previous councils before Somerset Council’s formation in 2023. The new Sunday charging proposal marks the first step toward a unified and consistent parking tariff system throughout the county.
Under the prior arrangements, Sunday charges were applied unevenly. Many towns such as Watchet, Minehead, Wells, Glastonbury, Cheddar, Street, Frome, Shepton Mallet, Williton, and Burnham-on-Sea already impose a Sunday fee. In contrast, key locations including Taunton, Wellington, Bridgwater, Chard, Crewkerne, Yeovil, and Highbridge currently offer free Sunday parking.
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The council’s objective is to harmonize parking charges across Somerset while maintaining a fully self-funding service. This includes covering operational costs such as staffing, enforcement, administration of penalty notices, and high-quality maintenance of the car parks.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Waste, emphasized the importance of public engagement. “I encourage everyone to participate in this consultation,” he said. “Running and maintaining our many car parks involves considerable costs and logistical challenges. The proposed changes aim to create fairness and consistency in parking charges, and the additional revenues will ensure the service remains self-sustaining and well-managed.”
In addition to Sunday charges, the council plans further consultations on potential on-street parking fees following a free 30-minute grace period, as well as introducing charges in currently free car parks. These will be developed through localized discussions with members, town and parish councils, and additional public engagement.
Following the consultation’s close, the proposals will be reviewed by the Council’s Climate and Place Scrutiny Committee, with final decisions scheduled for the Executive meeting on December 3. If approved, the changes are expected to take effect in 2026.
Residents and business owners can participate in the consultation at https://somersetcouncil.citizenspace.com/parking/copy-of-consultation.