Somerset Council considers new parking charge system across county
Plans could see a new county-wide approach to parking fees and permits
Parking charges across Somerset could become more consistent under new proposals being considered by Somerset Council next week.
The council's Executive will meet on 7 October to discuss plans for a phased introduction of a county-wide charging system across its 120 chargeable car parks.
At the moment, different parking rates apply in different parts of Somerset, with some charges inherited from the former district councils before local government reorganisation in 2023. There are also 42 council-run car parks that remain free to use.
Under the proposals, existing parking charges would increase by 10% from January 2027. A new tier-based charging structure would then be introduced later in autumn 2027, with areas that currently have particularly low charges facing gradual increases over time.
Somerset Council says the changes are designed to create a fairer system while giving motorists, businesses and communities more time to adapt following feedback from residents and councillors.
Councillor Liz Leyshon, the council's lead member for finance, said the authority inherited a "patchwork system" of parking charges following the creation of the unitary council and has a duty to make the system more consistent.
The proposals also include:
Up to £350,000 to replace ageing parking payment machines.
Up to £150,000 to redesign parking bays at Taunton's Orchard Multi-Storey Car Park to better accommodate larger vehicles and electric cars.
A six-month trial of seven-day operation for Taunton's Park and Ride service.
Plans to extend some town-centre residents' parking schemes and on-street parking restrictions from six to seven days a week.
No decision is being made at this stage on introducing charges at currently free council car parks.
The council says further engagement would take place with residents, businesses, local councillors and town and parish councils before any proposals affecting free car parks, permits or concessions are brought forward.
Somerset Council's Executive will consider the plans at its meeting on 7 October.