Purpose

To seek approval for the proposed fee
increases to support the Council's Parking Principles, Local
Transport Plan and ensure sustainable funding for transportation
infrastructure and services.

Decision

That the new fees and charges 10 per cent
uplift for parking charges, as set out in the report and appendices
are approved to come into effect from 1 April 2026. That Blue Badge
holder charges, where they currently exist in council car parks,
are removed making Blue Badge Holder Parking free in all council
run car parks. The financial impact of these changes being an
estimated reduction of £1.7m in the level of income
anticipated to be received compared to the 26/27 budget.

Reasons for the decision

This 10% uplift to parking charges caters for
inflationary cost increases into 2027 and recognises the
Council’s significant investment in terms of improvements to
its 170 car parks and facilities.

Alternative options considered

To leave the tariffs unchanged would fail to
recognise the inflationary cost increases.