Decision Details

That Cabinet:

1. Approved the proposed off-street parking tariffs, representing inflationary increases of 3.8% (rounded up to the next ten pence interval), to be implemented from 1 April 2026.

2. Delegated authority to the Strategic Director, in consultation with the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Economic Development and Transport, to review and implement an amendment to parking tariffs up to the ONS published CPI rate for September of each year (to the nearest ten pence) without the need to return to Cabinet. Such an amendment to take effect from the 1st of April of the following financial year.

1. The proposal was principally driven by the inflationary pressures evident in the UK with the most recent CPI figures showing an increase in inflation and a hold at the current level. By adopting this moderate fee increase it ensures that the parking service can continue to absorb potential cost increases whilst providing affordable visitor services and protecting the Council’s ability to budget and invest in local facilities.

2. Not adopting the proposed fees would reduce the Council’s revenue in real terms, potentially risking the quality of service provided both in car parks and in wider service areas, as inflation increases the costs that these are exposed to.

3. Delegating authority to adopt inflationary car park fee increases going forward protects an important revenue stream for the Council in the longer term and reduces the potential need for sharper and steeper fee increases in the future. It also allows for more effective budget forecasting and planning

The options to consider included:

1. No fee increase, with all off-street parking fees to remain at 2025/26 levels.

2. Apply the proposed off-street parking fees for 2026/27, representing an inflationary increase of 3.8% (rounded up to the next ten pence).