Parking revenue revealed as shops rue lost trade

One hour's free parking on Lymington High Street was ended in 2022

More than £260,000 has been raised from parking meters on a Hampshire high street, a Freedom of Information (FoI) request has revealed.

Businesses have complained Lymington has been turned into a "ghost town" since the meters were installed in 2022, claiming they have cost £80,000 in lost trade in the past year.

A proposal that urged the county council to review on-street parking charges was defeated at a council meeting last week.

Hampshire County Council instead voted to work with district and borough authorities to identify better ways to support local businesses.

Motorists are currently charged £1.50 to park for one hour and £3.10 for two hours on Lymington High Street.

According to the FoI request by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Hampshire County Council has collected £263,089 from the meters.

Income has grown steadily from £60,718.80 in 2022/23 to £105,127.88 in 2024/25.

It was also revealed the council paid a one-off £39,880 for installation and initial maintenance. It now pays £4,920 a year for ongoing maintenance.

Protests have been held in recent months, calling for the return of one-hour free parking.

At a recent full council meeting, two shop owners presented a petition signed by more than 8,000 people.

Liberal Democrat councillor Malcolm Wade said traders had reported losing £55,000 in turnover in the first year alone, and an even greater £80,000 this year.

Shop owner David McConnachie told councillors traders have seen a "dramatic" and "devastating" fall in trade of "at least" 30%.

He said the new charges have discouraged people from making quick visits, with many saying a trip to the high street was "not worth it".

Mr McConnachie said: "We are not asking for something extravagant, we are asking for the restoration of the simple and effective proven measure that supports local trade."

Cabinet member for highways, Lulu Bowerman assured trades the council would "make any appropriate changes" if needed.