Plymouth residents urged to speak out over proposed parking charge hikes

Residents across Plymouth are being asked to share their opinions on planned parking charge increases after a South West Devon MP launched a public survey on the proposals.

Conservative MP Rebecca Smith is consulting on a range of changes that could raise the cost of parking across the city. 

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The Moorlander previously reported on plans which include higher on-street charges, increases to residential and long-stay permits, higher fees in council-owned multi-storey car parks, and new charges at some locations that are currently free.

Under the proposals, coastal car parks at Jennycliff and Mount Batten would introduce paid parking, with drivers receiving one hour free before paying £2 to stay longer.

Ms Smith said she launched the survey to ensure local people could have their views heard and that the responses would be shared with the council.

She said: “Parking is an important issue for many people across Plymouth, whether you are a resident, business owner or visitor to the city.

“Labour-run Plymouth City Council is proposing a range of parking charge increases, and it’s important that local people have the chance to make their voices heard.

“Along with local Conservative councillors and candidates, I launched this short survey to gather residents’ views on the proposed changes and how parking costs affect visits to the city centre, local businesses and places people enjoy across Plymouth.

“I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet taken part to spare a minute to complete the survey and share their views.”

According to information published with the survey, the council’s consultation covers increases to on-street parking, residential permits and council car parks, as well as new charges at some currently free sites.

Questions in the survey ask whether people support or oppose the proposed £2 charge for stays longer than one hour at coastal car parks, whether improvements should be made before charges are introduced, and whether fees might reduce anti-social behaviour or long-stay parking.

Residents are also asked how any new charges would affect visits to the area and how long parking should remain free before payment is required.

Ms Smith said she intends to share the results with the council once responses have been collected.

Plymouth City Council is continuing its own consultation on the proposed changes.