The Cotswolds are implementing new parking measures aimed at improving convenience for residents, supporting local businesses, and addressing future demands. These changes reflect the commitment to sustainability and community investment.
Starting this year and running through 2028, the Cotswold District Council’s updated parking strategy includes free morning parking in Bourton-on-the-Water and the introduction of a tourist levy in Stow-on-the-Wold, both designed to enhance local life and visitor experience.
In Bourton-on-the-Water, residents will benefit from free parking at the Rissington Road car park before 10am, allowing easier access to village shops and services without the pressure of early parking fees. Parking charges will now be extended from 10am until 8pm, replacing the previous 8am to 6pm schedule to better accommodate visitors who stay later into the evening.
READ MORE: Mad Dog Brewery Opens New Taproom in Historic Cheltenham Fire Station with Free Pint Offer
READ MORE: Gloucester City Council to Hold Special Meeting on Financial Crisis Amid Calls for Transparency
Cllr Paul Hodgkinson, cabinet member for health, culture, and visitor experience, explained at a recent meeting, “This new approach addresses the challenges our village faces during peak tourist season. Giving residents earlier access to parking supports local businesses while extending parking hours helps generate revenue to be reinvested in the community.”
Since 2021, Bourton-on-the-Water’s Rissington Road car park has applied a tourist levy— a percentage of parking fees that funds community projects. Buoyed by its success, a similar levy will now be introduced at Maugersbury Road car park in Stow-on-the-Wold to help manage the increasing number of visitors and fund local initiatives.
“The Bourton scheme has already funded key initiatives such as enhanced parking enforcement and the appointment of a village warden, easing the tourism impact on residents,” said Cllr Hodgkinson. “We anticipate the Stow levy will provide comparable benefits for its community.”
The comprehensive strategy also includes plans to upgrade parking technology and payment systems to improve accessibility for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the council will expand electric vehicle charging facilities, in line with its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
Collaboration with local town and parish councils will continue to ensure the evolving parking strategy effectively meets the needs of communities across the district.