Drivers in the South West of England are set to face fresh parking rules based on the size of their vehicles, which could see them pay more every day.
Bath and North East Somerset Council has confirmed the introduction of new parking charges and size-based permits.
The new rules were introduced on Tuesday, August 25, and will be rolled out across the region after consultations heard from residents about the proposals.
One of the key measures included in the new rules is the introduction of size-based charges for residents, based on how big their vehicles are.
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It outlined that larger vehicles take up more space on the road and can have a greater impact on safety, prompting the decision to charge them more.
The council stated that people using more public space should pay more towards the “management and the maintenance of public roads”.
Owners of smaller vehicles will be offered a discount, while additional charges will be levied for larger models, which will be applied after any existing emission-based levy.
Motorists will also be required to have a valid MOT for permit eligibility to reduce the risk from uninsured vehicles.
There will also be a “small” increase in the cost of Residents’ Parking Zones (RPZ) visitors’ parking permits, although this will also be introduced over three years.
It stated that the reason for introducing size-based charges was that consumer demand for larger models, including SUVs, had jumped to more than 60 per cent in 2024, compared to less than 50 per cent in 2020.
All on-street parking permits are set to increase by 20 per cent, while the owners of larger vehicles will have to pay a further surcharge.
The BBC estimates that around 9,500 permit holders will have to pay more, although some will be able to get a discount on their permits.
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Councillor 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.”
Councillor Hirst thanked people who took part in the initial consultation, noting that their feedback helped inform the final proposals.
Avon and North East Somerset Council added that the new rules would see the introduction of 24-hour parking charges on Weston Road in Bath.
From October 1, the 24-hour parking charges at Bath’s three Park and Ride sites for motorists not using the service will go from £3 to £4.
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