Bridgwater Chiefs Oppose Somerset Parking Charges and Seek Car Park Takeover

Bridgwater Council Calls for Free Parking as Somerset Charges Face Opposition

Bridgwater Chiefs Oppose Somerset Parking Charges and Seek Car Park Takeover Bridgwater Town Council has formally opposed Somerset Council's plans for new parking tariffs, including proposed Sunday charges, amid concerns about the effect on residents, visitors and town-centre businesses. Councillors have called for the proposals to be reviewed and have also asked Somerset Council to consider allowing the town council to take over the management of council-owned car parks in Bridgwater. Calls for cheaper parking in Bridgwater At a recent meeting, Bridgwater councillors raised concerns about the cumulative impact of higher parking costs and the potential effect on town-centre footfall. The town council has asked Somerset Council to reconsider the planned tariff increases and explore the possibility of offering up to two hours of free parking in Bridgwater. Councillors also want discussions about the possible devolution of Somerset Council-owned car parks to Bridgwater Town Council, potentially giving the town a greater role in how its parking facilities are managed. Cllr Mick Lerry, who proposed the motion, said affordable parking plays an important role in supporting local trade and attracting visitors to the town centre. Cllr Diogo Rodrigues, who seconded the motion, said councillors from different parties had recognised concerns raised by residents and businesses and called for Somerset Council to work with the town council on future parking arrangements. What are the proposed Somerset parking changes? Somerset Council's plans would introduce new tariffs based on a car park's specific rating, as part of a wider parking review across the county. The council says the new framework is intended to create a more consistent approach to parking charges, following different practices in towns across Somerset. The new tariffs could be introduced in December, although the proposals are still subject to the consultation process. Somerset Council said the framework allows for different types of car park and usage, including some free parking periods and lower tariffs in less premium and more rural locations. The authority also says higher tariffs at busier car parks in larger centres are intended to encourage turnover and sustainable travel into Somerset's towns. Bridgwater parking plans now face objections Bridgwater Town Council will formally submit its objections to Somerset Council as part of the consultation process. Alongside concerns about Sunday charges and higher tariffs, the town council has requested discussions about the future management of council-owned car parks within Bridgwater. For local drivers, the outcome could affect how much they pay to park in the town centre and whether free parking periods are introduced. The proposals also come as Somerset Council reviews how parking charges are structured across the county, meaning the final arrangements for Bridgwater have not yet been confirmed. Drivers should therefore check the latest parking information before making trips into the town centre, particularly while the consultation and discussions over the proposed changes continue.