New charges in 17 city car parks to go ahead

Plans to end two hour's free parking in a city's car parks are set to go ahead.

Two hours of free parking at 17 car parks in Bitterne, Portswood, Shirley and Woolston is due to end on 1 April in a move which Southampton City Council said would raise more than £500,000.

Members of Southampton City Council's scrutiny management committee reviewed the decision and voted to allow it to proceed.

There had been opposition from traders near the affected car parks had said it would "drastically reduce" footfall for nearby shops and businesses.

Under the plans, new rates of 50p per hour for one hour and £1 for two hours would replace the current two-hour free option from 08:00 to 20:00.

Local businesses raised concerns about the impact the measures would have on footfall.

Liberal Democrat group leader Richard Blackman and Conservative member Rob Stead requested the decision be called in for review by the scrutiny committee.

They said the consultation had shown "overwhelming public opposition" to the plans.

The meeting on Tuesday heard the measures could potentially increase the availability of car park spaces or boost bus use.

Councillors were also told there would be a permit scheme to allow parents to park for free at certain car parks for school pick-ups and drop-offs.

A review is due to be held after six months.

The new parking charges come after the council was saved from effective bankruptcy after successfully applying for emergency government to help meet a £39m budget shortfall for 2024-25.

Member for environment and transport Eamonn Keogh said the council would be "mindful" of the impact of the charges on the surrounding areas.

"Through prudent financial work... we are moving towards a much more resilient and sustainable position. It means that as we go on, we can make more decisions that will improve the attractiveness and sustainability of our district centres.

"But clearly there is the short-term concern about making sure our general fund position is sustainable going forward."

The committee recommended the plan go ahead, but said the cabinet should "support investment in our district centres to enhance their viability and vitality".

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