Decision details

*RESOLVED –

1.    That there be no increase in the fees and charges for car parks for 2021/22.

2.    That tariffs be reviewed for 2022/23.

3.    That all residents of the Borough will continue to benefit from free parking in 2021/22 before 10am and after 3pm Monday to Saturday and all-day Sunday, and Bank Holidays at selected surface car parks using the Resident Parking Scheme.

4.    That the Service Director for Leisure, Culture and Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, be granted delegated authority to apply appropriate negotiated fees for new activities and opportunities that are introduced or arise during the period covered by this report.

REASONS FOR DECISIONS

1.    The 2020/21 Car Park Fees and Charges report notes that if the income target for 2020/21 is achieved then there will be no increase in tariffs for 2021/22 and a review will be made for 2022/23. As there has been limited opportunity to achieve any meaningful income comparison it is felt that the fees and charges review for 2021/22 should take this into consideration and the next review made for 2022/23.

2.    The impact of COVID-19 has significantly reduced car park income since March 2020 and continues to do so. Visitor, shopper and worker numbers to the town centre are directly impacting on car park utilisation and income generation.

3.    Although the income target will not be achieved for 2020/21 to increase any fees for parking could further exacerbate parking uptake and damage the Council’s reputation in relation to bringing footfall safely back to the town centre.