Sunday Car Parking Charges proposed for Taunton and Wellington.
03/12 UPDATE. Somerset Council’s Executive committee has today agreed to (‘kick the can down the road’).
They agreed that “Following the public consultation and further consideration the executive committee has agreed to defer the consideration of Sunday parking charges, where there are currently no charges until the parking policy principles have been formally approved.”
Original Post >>>
Somerset Council is proposing to extend existing Monday to Saturday car parking charges to include Sundays. While I fully appreciate the financial pressures facing the Council, I am deeply concerned about the negative economic and social impact this proposal will have on the residents, retailers, and leisure providers of Taunton and Wellington.
Introducing Sunday charges risks undermining the vitality of our town centres at a time when we should be encouraging footfall and supporting local businesses.
This proposal could also adversely affect the physical and mental wellbeing of our communities.
Take, for example, the High Street and Fons George car parks near Vivary Park in Taunton. On Sundays, these car parks are well used by a wide range of people: shoppers, churchgoers, walkers, golfers, tennis and bowls players, families enjoying the playground, and those simply meeting friends for coffee or enjoying a quiet moment on a bench. Many visit town centre restaurants and pubs, attend events at venues like The Lawns and the Creative Innovation Centre, or take part in outdoor exercise classes such as Pilates in Wilton Lands.
Free Sunday parking plays a vital role in making these activities accessible and attractive. If charges are introduced, I fear many will choose not to come, especially those who rely on their cars due to mobility, distance, or convenience. While some may argue that people could walk, cycle, or use public transport, the reality is that many prefer or need to drive, and free parking is a key factor in their decision to visit.
This change would place further strain on Taunton and Wellington’s already fragile economies and could deter visitors at a time when we are working hard to promote our towns as vibrant destinations.
Somerset Council has stated that it will consider all feedback, positive and negative, before making a final decision. I welcome this commitment and urge the Council to listen carefully to what I believe to be overwhelming public opposition to these proposals.
If the majority of responses are against the plan, then the logical and democratic conclusion is that it should NOT be implemented. Any decision must be based on what is genuinely in the best interests of Somerset’s residents and our already under-pressure council taxpayers.
Cllr John Hunt
It is what YOU think that matters, so whether you agree with me or not, please do express your view by completing the consultation using the link below.
The consultation runs from 8 September to 20 October 2025. Please follow this link to give your view >>> Consultation on proposed changes to Sunday parking charges – Somerset Council – Citizen Space
Click on the image above to see the related article in the Somerset County Gazette.
