Purpose

Consideration and recommendations of feedback
received from the public following a preliminary public
consultation on changes to parking charges proposed for
2026–27, that aim to improve road safety, encourage
sustainable travel, and ensure our parking services cover their
costs.

Decision

To progress to statutory public consultation via the
Traffic Regulation Order process of the following:
 
(1) 
Proposal to introduce
an additional resident’s permit charge
based on vehicle size (area) in 2026/27.
 
(2) 
Proposal to increase
visitor permit charges in 2026/27.
 
(3) 
Proposal to increase
the all-day parking charge at all Park and Ride sites in
Bath.

Reasons for the decision

Parking charge proposals have been formulated in accordance
with the requirements of s122 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act
(1984) (RTRA 1984). The aim of these proposals is to address both
pedestrian safety and traffic management considerations, supporting
the council’s Corporate Strategy and local transport policy
whilst also remaining consistent with the council's commitments to
Liveable Neighbourhoods and the Journey to Net
Zero.
 
Vehicle sizes are increasing, driven by consumer demand for
larger models like SUVs, which made up over 60% of new UK car sales
in 2024—up from less than 50% in 2020. Research shows that
bigger vehicles such as SUVs and vans are more likely to cause
serious injuries or fatalities to pedestrians (especially children)
and cyclists because of their height and blind spots. Large
vehicles also block buses, emergency services, and deliveries on
narrow roads, making travel more difficult for everyone.
 
Reviewing visitor permit charges complements a
separate review of base charges in 2025/26 for resident parking
permits to ensure that Resident Parking Schemes are self-financing
so that their operating costs are not covered by other council
funds.
 
A proposed increase to all day parking charges
at out park and ride sites for motorists not using the park and
ride service protects the long- term viability of the service and
ensures that those using these sites for short-stay parking to
heath and recreation, particularly Lansdown Park & Ride to the
North of the city, are not impacted.

Alternative options considered

None.  Proposals
outlined in the report have been subject to public
consultation.