Drivers in Bath and North East Somerset will soon pay more to park larger vehicles under a new permit system that ties costs to vehicle size. The changes begin on 25 August, introducing size-based charges for residential parking permits.
Larger vehicles face higher fees under new permit structure
The revised pricing model divides vehicles into bands based on their footprint in square metres. Smaller cars, like a Kia Picanto or Volkswagen Polo, will receive discounts of up to £20 on annual permit fees. Vehicles exceeding seven square metres—including large vans such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter—will incur additional charges.
A first permit for a large van will cost £112 more per year. For households with a second vehicle, the fees rise further: a second small car could add up to £22, while a second large van could cost an extra £308.
Council officials explained the new structure reflects the growing variety of vehicle sizes on local roads. Larger vehicles take up more space when parked and can reduce visibility for pedestrians and cyclists. The adjustments aim to encourage the use of smaller, more efficient vehicles.
Businesses and fleet operators brace for impact
The charges could affect businesses that rely on larger vehicles, particularly those where drivers take vans home and park them on residential streets overnight. Fleet operators may need to include the higher permit costs in their budgets, especially if they cover employee parking expenses.
Councillor Joel Hirst, who oversees the council’s sustainable transport strategy, said the changes support road safety and fairness. Research indicates that larger vehicles like SUVs pose a greater risk to pedestrians and cyclists in collisions, with children at higher risk. “By introducing size-based permit charges, we are encouraging the use of smaller, safer and cleaner vehicles,” he stated.
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The decision followed public consultations, with resident feedback shaping the final proposal. It forms part of a broader effort to manage road space more sustainably, including recent increases to on-street parking fees and new charges at Park & Ride sites.
The new permit structure isn’t the only adjustment. On-street parking charges have risen by 20%, and visitor permits in residential zones now require payment. Starting 1 October, drivers leaving cars at Bath’s three Park & Ride sites without using the service will pay £4 for 24-hour parking, up from £3.
Weston Road in Bath will also see new parking charges. The council said these measures aim to balance demand for limited road space while promoting alternatives like public transport and cycling.
For now, attention remains on the 25 August rollout. Drivers with larger vehicles must check their vehicle’s footprint to determine the new cost, while businesses may reconsider how they handle employee parking.
Companies facing similar challenges over vehicle use and employment status may find new legal disputes adding to their concerns.
