Somerset Council is pressing ahead with plans to standardise parking charges across the county – but has made key amendments following public and business feedback.

During its Executive Budget Meeting, the council agreed to protect free overnight parking for cars and introduce 30 minutes of free parking in new on-street limited waiting bays. The changes aim to balance the needs of residents, visitors, and businesses while ensuring that Somerset's parking service remains self-funded.

What's changing?

While the proposals are still subject to public consultation, the revised plans for 2025/26 now include:

• Standardised Sunday parking charges across all car parks (currently, some charge while others do not).
• Introducing charges at currently free car parks to create consistency.

Why is this happening?

At present, Somerset's 200 council-run car parks operate under different pricing structures depending on location. Some towns, such as Williton, charge for Sunday parking the same as weekdays, while others, like Wellington, offer free parking on Sundays. In Wiveliscombe, parking is free all week, and Wincanton Town Council covers costs to keep its car park free.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, Lead Member for Transport and Waste Services, said the review is designed to address these inconsistencies:

"We need to bring fairness and uniformity in parking practice across the county. The extra income will help ensure the parking service is fully self-financed and can continue to be run, staffed, and maintained properly."

The review also aims to support local businesses, with Wilkins emphasising that short-term free parking will make it easier for customers to park for quick visits, while protecting free overnight parking will help those using town centres in the evening.

What happens next?

The revised proposals will now go out for public consultation, where residents and businesses can have their say before final decisions are made.

Somerset Council has not reviewed its parking system since its formation in 2023, and these changes are part of wider efforts to ensure a fair and consistent approach across the county.