Decision details

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.

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.

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.

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