Epsom and Ewell car parking fees on new levels
Epsom and Ewell Council Approves Changes to Car Parking Fees and Policies for 2025/26
In a meeting of the Environment Committee on 21 January 2025, councillors approved a series of changes to car parking fees and policies across the borough. The measures aim to address financial targets, enhance service provision, and offer new concessions for cultural activities. After detailed discussions, the committee voted to adopt the proposals, with amendments led by Councillor Julie Morris (LibDem, College).
Fee and Permit Adjustments
The committee voted (6 for, 1 against, 1 abstaining) to implement proposed changes to car park fees and permit prices for the 2025/26 financial year. Notable adjustments include:
- A 10% increase in parking fees at the Ashley Centre for up to 3 hours, rising from £5.00 to £5.50.
- Revisions to parking permits for residents and businesses.
Councillor Morris expressed concern about the annual increases in parking charges, stating, “We cannot be doing this year on year.” She urged the council to explore alternative ways to balance the budget without consistently raising costs for residents. In response, Councillor Liz Frost (RA, Woodcote and Langley), Chair of the Committee, emphasized that not all charges were increasing, highlighting the reduction in evening parking fees under the new flat rate structure.
Special Concessions for Performers and Shoppers
Councillor Morris successfully secured amendments to the proposed concessions for Epsom Playhouse performers, crew, and technical teams. The adopted recommendation ensures these concessions align with current practice and take effect immediately. She also pushed for a defined timeframe for the Christmas parking concessions, resulting in the committee’s agreement to offer discounted festive parking for the next two years.
The committee unanimously approved:
- Concessionary parking rates for Playhouse-affiliated individuals, effective immediately.
- The continuation of discounted Christmas parking offers for the next two years, aimed at boosting local shopping and economic activity during the festive period.
Simplified Evening Parking
The committee agreed to standardize evening parking charges across the borough. From Monday to Saturday, a flat rate will now apply:
- £5.00 for major car parks like the Ashley Centre.
- £2.50 for smaller facilities such as Dorset House and Stoneleigh Parade.
This change simplifies parking for residents and visitors, with some charges lower than before.
Implementation and Public Engagement
The Head of Housing & Community was authorized to implement the changes and address any public representations. Feedback from residents and businesses will be reviewed by the committee in March 2025.
Decision Breakdown
The resolutions were approved with varying levels of support:
- The fee and permit adjustments passed with six votes in favor, one against, and one abstention.
- Concessionary parking rates for Playhouse performers and Christmas offers were unanimously adopted.
- The Head of Housing & Community’s authority to implement the changes was approved with five votes in favor, one against, and two abstentions.
Next Steps
The updated fees and concessions will take effect on 1 April 2025. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the changes and provide feedback to the council.
Councillors will continue to monitor the impact of the changes, balancing the need for sustainable revenue with affordability and accessibility for the community. The committee will revisit the parking policies in March 2025 to review public input and adjust as needed.