SHDC Executive recommends the implementation of increased parking charges

Despite 90 per cent of responses objecting, SHDC is pressing ahead with proposals to increase the price of parking. 

In a meeting of the SHDC Executive on January 23, it was recommended to go ahead with the change in parking costs and schemes, including the implementation of a Residents Discount Parking Scheme. 

In a report to the council by Emma Widdicombe, Principal Assets Officer, and Stuart Noyce, Head of Community Services, it states: "Since April 2021, the Consumer Price Index has increased by 26% and inflation levels have been at a 40-year high. Service costs have increased significantly, as have salaries, but in recognition of the cost-of-living crisis and challenging economic environment, the council has continued to absorb these increases and has not passed on those costs to service users but is not able to continue to do so.

"The underlying costs of running our services have increased significantly and the current budget gap we are facing means we can no longer hold fees at the current rate."

Results from the public engagement were shared, with the consultation being called "encouraging with 478 responses". Of the 478 responses received 433 objected and 45 supported the proposals.

South Hams District Council 

Themes for objecting comments included cost concerns, impact on local residents, negative impact on visitors and an impact on the visitor economy, with other objection themes below: 

South Hams District Council 

You can find out more about the plans with the Executive meeting minutes on the SHDC website: https://democracy.swdevon.gov.uk/documents/g1971/Public%20reports%20pack%2023rd-Jan-2025%2010.00%20South%20Hams%20Executive.pdf?T=10