Views sought on council increasing parking charges

South Hams District Council said it was "regrettably" looking to increase car parking charges in the area

Changes to car parking charges and the introduction of a resident parking discount scheme has been proposed by South Hams District Council.

It follows four years of frozen car park prices to "support residents and businesses throughout the cost-of-living crisis".

The authority said it was "regrettably considering increasing charges" from 1 April as it could "no longer afford the significant rising costs of delivering services".

The council said following a review of charges at similar car parks across the South West, it was clear parking charges in the South Hams was "lower than most".

It has asked people to share their views on its proposals.

The council said: "Residents of the South Hams would be able to apply for membership of a new resident discounts scheme.

"This will allow them to access lower parking charges at all their council-owned car parks via the cashless parking app.

"Those who don't have a smartphone will receive an extra half hour parking time instead."

The consultation runs until 5 January 2025. The final decision will be made by January 2025, the council added.