Brighton cuts parking fees to attract more visitors

Brighton and Hove City Council has announced a significant reduction in parking fees across several off-street car parks in the city, aiming to attract more visitors and locals. This decision follows a review indicating a decline in the use of council car parks since 2021, with current hourly tariffs being higher than in many other cities. The council's new parking strategy includes a 27% reduction in the one-hour weekday rate at The Lanes car park, dropping from £5.50 to £4, and a decrease at Regency Square from £5 to £4. Additionally, the 24-hour weekday rate at Regency Square will be reduced from £32 to £25, and a flat rate of £7.50 will replace separate evening and night-time rates. Councillor Trevor Muten emphasized that these changes are part of a broader initiative to create a fairer and simpler parking system, which is expected to encourage more people to shop, dine, and enjoy the city. The council is also looking to enhance sustainable transport options, including reliable bus services and improved cycling infrastructure, alongside the new parking plan. Future proposals include allowing resident permit holders to park overnight in high-demand areas and introducing paid parking in zones with low permit uptake. These plans are still under development, with further details to be announced later. The council aims to optimize parking space usage while making it more affordable for motorists, ultimately benefiting the local economy and community. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need to balance parking availability with the desire to promote sustainable transport and enhance the overall visitor experience in Brighton and Hove.