Motorists in Gloucester have been hit with more than £110,000 in parking fines issued across council-owned car parks during the current financial year. So far, 2,750 penalties have been handed out, generating a total income of £110,348 for the City Council.
These figures come alongside last year’s data, which showed approximately 3,000 fines raised £124,050. The information was disclosed following a request by Councillor Sajid Patel (C, Barton and Tredworth) about the council’s revenue from parking fines over the past two financial years.
Resources cabinet member Declan Wilson (LD, Hucclecote) provided the data in a written response during the cabinet meeting on March 11, confirming the ongoing financial impact of parking enforcement in Gloucester.
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Cllr Patel expressed concerns about the active fining policy, stating, “With so many fines issued in city centre car parks, it’s no surprise people are avoiding the city centre and choosing other locations for their shopping. This approach is killing the city centre and ultimately hurting local businesses, which are struggling with fewer customers and empty shops.”
He urged the council to reconsider its strategy, suggesting a freeze or reduction in parking charges to attract more visitors to the city centre.
In response, city council leaders agreed to review parking fees and charges, including the possibility of introducing overnight fees for city centre multi-storey car parks. The proposed changes aim to enhance evening footfall and bolster the night-time economy by ensuring car parks remain safe, well-maintained, and easily accessible after hours.
Cllr Wilson highlighted the financial pressures of maintaining car parks, stating, “Operating costs are rising, and we face specific challenges with Eastgate and Kingswalk car parks, which are currently closed at night. Introducing a small evening charge could help fund keeping these facilities open and in good condition.”
Additionally, the council is considering extending the grace period for parking and offering discounts on parking permits for small vehicles as part of a wider effort to improve parking policies.