Bath and North East Somerset Council is now charging owners of SUVs and larger vehicle more for parking permits. The size-based charging system reflects what the council says is the greater road space occupied by larger vehicles and their impact on visibility and safety, says The Business Desk.

On-street parking permit charges have increased by 20%, with phased increases to the cost of Residents’ Parking Zone visitor permits.

Cllr Joel Hirst, cabinet member for sustainable transport strategy, said:

“These changes will help us manage parking in a way that supports road safety, sustainability and fairness for all road users. Research shows that larger vehicles like SUVs pose a greater risk to pedestrians and cyclists in collisions, with children particularly vulnerable. By introducing size-based permit charges, we are encouraging the use of smaller, safer and cleaner vehicles.”

Other changes include the introduction of parking charges on Weston Road in Bath and 24-hour parking charges at the city’s three Park & Ride sites rising from £3 to £4 from 1 October for motorists not using the service.

The council withdrew plans to extend parking charges at Bath Hill East car park in Keynsham to include Saturdays after feedback from residents and businesses highlighted concerns about impact on local footfall and affordability.

(Picture: Tupungato)