Popular UK seaside city axes £33.50 parking charges after driving away tourists

A major UK tourist city has been forced to slash the cost of parking – due to concerns the tariffs were driving away daytrippers.

More than 11 million people visit Brighton each year according to a council report on parking in the Sussex city.

Brighton has ended up with more than 200 different tariffs in place over the years, and its expected revenues from council-operated car parks are projected to be below expectations by £1.16 million for the 2024/25 financial year.

A report discussed by the Labour-run Brighton and Hove District Council on Thursday, September 26, outlined the need for action.

It said:  “Over several decades, at least 200 different tariffs have been established, which include high, medium, and low emission tariffs for resident permits and visitor on-street parking.

“As a result, there is now a complex array of parking tariffs that are likely deterring visitors and residents alike.”

The most expensive council-run car park in Brighton, the Lanes, costs £33.50 to park for nine hours or £24 for four hours.

This week the council confirmed it would be cutting several one-hour and evening tariffs at car parks across the city in a bid to encourage more people to use the car parks.

Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet Member for Transport, Parking and Public Realm said: “These changes mark the beginning of a new approach to parking in Brighton & Hove which will be simpler and fairer for everyone.”

“The parking review told us that high car park prices were deterring some people from coming into the city. Reducing one-hour and evening tariffs will make it cheaper for those wanting to shop, eat and drink.

“Brighton & Hove has a bustling nighttime economy and it’s vital we do whatever we can to increase footfall and support those local businesses to thrive.

“Our new parking plan is designed to sit alongside all we’re doing to support better, sustainable transport in Brighton & Hove. Good, reliable bus services, electric vehicle charge points, improved walking and cycling infrastructure, together with more affordable parking options, mean we can give people real choices about how to travel around the city.”