Cheltenham Explores Higher Parking Charges for Larger Vehicles Amid “Carspreading” Concerns
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
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Cheltenham Borough Council is reviewing parking charges for larger and heavier vehicles, such as SUVs, in response to rising concerns over “carspreading”—the phenomenon where modern cars have become significantly larger and heavier, stretching the limits of existing parking spaces.
The council aims to assess whether it’s fair and feasible to introduce higher fees for heavier vehicles in its car parks, following a motion put forward by Green Party councillor Jan Foster.