The Portfolio Holder for Cleaner & Greener presented the report, which set out the annual review of parking management for 2025/26 for on and off-street parking. The fees recommended an inflation increase. The Cleaner & Greener Advisory Committee considered the same report and recommended the approval of option one and had also resolved a further recommendation for a parking management strategy.

The Head of Direct Services advised that the service budgeted for an inflationary increase of 2.5%, and the requirement to offset the assumed 25% reduction in parking in 2021/22, improving by 5% per year. This totalled an assumed parking increase of £306,000. Of this, £206,000 was adjusted for exceeding budget performance, efficiencies, and increased usage and enforcement. It was proposed that the remaining £100,000 be offset through a 3% increase on all parking fees and charges.

Members considered the report and hoped that final prices would not each increase by exactly 3% to make it easier for customers. It was also noted how full the car parks had been. Members considered the second recommendation from Cleaner and Greener Advisory Committee, noting that the review of fees and charges came yearly, with a thorough research and analysis before producing the options. A strategy was already being considered by Officers.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved: That the parking management proposal option 1 (overall 3% percentage inflationary increase on all parking fees and charges) for 2025/26, be agreed for consultation.