Bexhill permit parking scheme approved as new charges take effect

Bexhill drivers face new parking charges under controversial Zone F scheme

Bexhill permit parking scheme approved as drivers face new charges A controversial new permit parking scheme is set to come into force in Bexhill after East Sussex County Council councillors approved the charges and restrictions for Zone F. The scheme had previously been agreed in February, but could not take effect because the original advertised proposals did not include the planned parking charges and permit tariffs. New parking charges agreed for Zone F A further consultation was therefore required before the Traffic Regulation Order could be approved. The new order sets out both pay-and-display charges and permit prices, with most designated bays operating as mixed-use spaces while some will be permit-only. Pay-and-display parking will start at 35p for up to two hours and rise to £1.50 for up to 10 hours. The parking restrictions operate from 08:00 to 18:00, meaning a 10-hour ticket effectively provides all-day parking within the controlled period. Permit costs will vary depending on the vehicle and whether it is the first or second vehicle registered to an address. The county council also offers discounts for lower-emission vehicles, meaning some drivers will pay considerably less for a permit than others. The cheapest 12-month permit will cost £19 for a first vehicle producing 100kg or less of CO2 per km. At the other end of the scale, a non-discounted first permit for a vehicle producing more than 185g of CO2 per km will cost £115, while a second permit will cost £154. Scheme attracted objections from residents The emissions-based pricing structure was criticised by Bexhill South councillor Victoria Carson, whose division includes the new parking zone. Carson said she understood the parking pressures faced by residents but questioned whether the committee should approve the charges. She argued that households unable to afford a newer, lower-emission vehicle could face higher permit costs than neighbours with cleaner cars. Councillors heard that the permit prices are set at the same level across East Sussex and are intended to encourage people to adopt lower-emission vehicles. The consultation produced 76 objections and 77 responses in support, while three of the objections were subsequently withdrawn. Zone F covers parts of Cooden Drive, Richmond Avenue, Richmond Close, Richmond Grove, Richmond Road, South Cliff and West Parade. The scheme also includes paid parking at Polegrove recreation ground, another aspect that raised concerns during consideration of the proposals. For drivers living in or visiting the affected parts of Bexhill, the introduction of Zone F means checking the new parking signs and understanding whether a bay is pay-and-display, mixed-use or permit-only will become increasingly important.