Shopkeepers and residents in Swindon, Wiltshire, are debating a proposed plan by the local authority to increase short-stay parking charges, due to take effect from April 1, 2026, which critics warn could drive shoppers away from the town centre. The change is part of a new pricing system designed to encourage people to stay longer in the town while helping to cover a funding gap for local services.
Under the pricing changes proposed by Swindon Borough Council, the cost for the first hour of parking would rise to £2.50. To balance this increase, the council is reducing prices for visitors who park for more than four hours to make it more affordable for people to spend the day shopping or eating in the area.
Independent traders on Havelock Street have warned that the higher minimum charge will stop customers from visiting for quick errands or minor repairs. Business owner Vince Ayris said the higher costs would likely discourage people from coming into the town and might lead them to use out-of-town shopping parks where parking is free (reported by the Swindon Advertiser).
The council expects the change to generate an additional £375,000 in 2026/27 to help pay for essential public services. Cllr Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, said the move is meant to support the local economy by making longer stays cheaper rather than just raising all parking fees.
As part of the wider plan, the council also intends to terminate cash payments at all 20 council-run car parks by the end of 2026. This means that drivers will need to use a bank card, contactless payment or a mobile phone app to pay for their parking space.
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