Wiltshire Council approves Parking Plan 2026-2030 amid tariff review
Measures aim to modernise parking and ensure financial sustainability
Wiltshire Council’s Cabinet has approved the Parking Plan 2026-2030 and a review of parking charges across the county, setting out plans for a modernised, inclusive, and financially sustainable parking service.
The Parking Plan aligns with the council’s Local Transport Plan (LTP4) and seeks to balance accessibility, sustainability, and economic priorities.
It includes measures to enhance the parking experience for residents, businesses, and visitors while ensuring the service remains self-financing.
Key features of the Parking Plan
The Parking Plan outlines a series of improvements to Wiltshire’s parking services. These include:
- Making better use of council-owned assets by reducing underused car parks and exploring commercial opportunities
- Implementing biennial reviews of parking charges for fairness and consistency
- Updating policies for resident permits and special event parking
- Introducing technology improvements, including multiple payment options (such as cash), improved signage and wayfinding, and stronger enforcement
Proposed parking tariff changes
As part of the plan, the council has approved a review of parking tariffs with the aim of maintaining financial sustainability. Parking charges in Wiltshire have remained unchanged since 2022, despite inflationary pressures.
The proposed changes include:
- Increasing on-street and off-street parking tariffs across the county
- Extending chargeable hours to 7am-7pm
- Aligning Sunday charges with weekday rates
- Adjusting permit fees to reflect tariff changes
- Reintroducing on-street Sunday charges in Salisbury
Following a public consultation in the spring, any changes to tariffs will be introduced later in 2026. A second adjustment is planned for 2028, subject to statutory consultation processes.
Supporting transport and sustainability
Cabinet Member for Highways, Streetscene, and Flooding, Cllr Martin Smith, said the Parking Plan represents significant progress for Wiltshire’s transport services and infrastructure.
“Our Parking Plan 2026-2030 is a bold step forward in creating a modern, inclusive, and sustainable parking service for Wiltshire,” Smith said.
“It balances accessibility with environmental and economic priorities, ensuring that parking supports residents, businesses, and visitors, while remaining financially viable.”
He also noted that updates to tariffs will help fund essential transport services, including rural buses, creating a joined-up approach to travel and mobility across the county.
“By introducing fair and consistent tariff reviews, improving technology, and enhancing parking facilities, we are future-proofing our service and making it easier for everyone to park responsibly.”
Residents, businesses, and visitors will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed tariff changes during a spring 2026 public consultation. Further details will be shared closer to the date.