Bath & North East Somerset Council is considering changes to parking charges across the area, including a new size-based system for residents’ parking permits.
A Single Member Decision report sets out recommendations for further consultation under the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) process, following an initial public survey held in autumn 2025.
Under the proposals, charges for residents’ permits would be linked not only to emissions but also to the size of the vehicle, with the aim of encouraging ownership of smaller models that are safer for pedestrians and cyclists and less obstructive on narrow streets.
Smaller vehicles would receive a discount, while some larger cars and SUVs would pay an extra fee on top of existing emission-based charges.
Only vehicles with a valid MOT would be eligible for permits, to help reduce risks from unsafe or potentially uninsured vehicles.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the rise in larger vehicles: SUVs and other big models now account for more than 60% of new car sales in the UK, and studies show they can pose increased risks to vulnerable road users due to their height and blind spots.
The report, which is being put before Councillor Joel Hirst, cabinet member for sustainable transport strategy, and Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for communications and community, also recommends consulting on:
- A gradual increase in visitor permit charges from £1 per day to £2.50 per day by 2028.
- Changes to all-day parking at the three Bath Park & Ride sites, including raising the 24-hour rate from £3 to £4 for drivers who park but do not use the bus service.
The initial consultation, which ran from 17th October to 7th November, attracted 490 responses and 660 written comments.
While parking charges remain contentious, analysis showed notable support for the size-based approach, with half of respondents backing the proposal.
Councillor Joel Hirst said: “Thank you to all those who took part in the earlier consultation.
“We’ve listened to your feedback and have amended our proposals. We will now carefully consider the recommendations before us for a further consultation under the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) process.”
Councillor Manda Rigby added: “I will give careful consideration to the recommendations in the report. The proposals do not affect short-stay parking at our park and rides.
“This helps dog walkers and sports teams by not raising their charges however the proposals do address those who park all day but don’t use the bus and are therefore not contributing to the maintenance of the park and ride.”
More information can be found here.
