Emissions-based parking charges launch this week in Bath
B&NES Council are implementing the changes in a bid to increase use of more sustainable transport options
Last updated 29th Jun 2024
Emission-based parking charges are being introduce to improve the air quality in Bath - from Tuesday (September 5).
It'll only impact motorists with more polluting vehicles, with BANES Council saying many won't see any change in the price they pay at council-owned car parks.
It's in a bid to encourage people to use more sustainable alternatives when visiting the city centre.
The price of parking will depend on vehicle emissions, in line with the bands used for DVLA vehicle exercise duty.
Drivers of non-diesel vehicles with emissions below 131g/km will not see prices increase, whilst more polluting vehicles, like diesel vehicles, will now pay a higher rate.
Emission-based parking charges have been introduced at numerous local authorities throughout the country, however Bath & North East Somerset Council say they are the only local authority continuing to offer a cash payment option for stays.
When paying for parking, you'll need to input the details of your vehicle registration plate so your parking charge can be automatically calculated at the parking terminal.
Signage is going to be replaced across B&NES Council car parks to reflect the new charging structure and is advising customers to check this signage when paying for their stays.
'Our overall aim is to improve public safety'
Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Transport said: “Prices won’t change for a lot of drivers, these new charges will only affect people bringing more polluting vehicles into our city.
“This approach is being adopted across the country but we’re the only council remaining committed to offering cash payments for customers. We see it as really important to protect this.
“Our overall aim is to improve public safety by improving air quality and reducing congestion and I’d like to thank all that took part in the consultation and shared their views with us.
“Air pollution currently causes up to 36,000 deaths in the UK each year and the consultation responses show residents are concerned about the air quality in Bath, which these changes will help improve.
“Introducing these new charges will also support our Journey to Net Zero ambitions, builds on the progress made by the Clean Air Zone.”
In a recent public consultation carried out by the council, more than half of the 1,692 responses voiced concerns about air quality and felt the council should do more to tackle air pollution.
The emission-based charging structure will also be applied to car park season tickets, however existing season ticket holders will not see an increase in price for a 12-month period.
Foreign registered, or vehicles not registered with the DVLA, will be charged the highest price for the chosen duration to encourage visitors to use sustainable alternatives.
The impacted car parks
Emission-based parking charges will be introduced at:
- Avon Street
- Bath Sports & Leisure Centre
- Cattlemarket
- Charlotte Street
- Claverton Street
- Green Park Road
- Kingsmead Square
- Manvers Street
You can find out more about emissions-based parking on the B&NES Council website.