UK Councils Raise Parking Charges Funding Multi-Million Regeneration, Transport Projects

Several UK councils are adjusting parking charges to support local infrastructure and regeneration projects amidst financial pressures. Wolverhampton Council is reintroducing charges at St George's car park to fund a multi-million-pound redevelopment, including new homes and commercial spaces, with prices set lower for initial periods and plans to align charges with other city car parks. Shropshire Council has increased parking fees across selected areas to generate revenue for maintaining car parks, road improvements, and public transport, emphasizing these measures as necessary due to insufficient government funding. Oxfordshire has implemented a daily £5 congestion charge on certain roads, significantly increasing the total cost of parking in key city car parks, raising concerns from local businesses about the potential impact on visitor numbers. Meanwhile, Hampshire County Council reported over £5 million in parking income before expenses in 2024/25, with surpluses reinvested in enforcement, transport improvements, and safety schemes. These changes reflect broader efforts by local authorities to manage constrained budgets while maintaining essential services and supporting economic development.