BID calls for urgent re-think on North Yorkshire Council’s proposals to hike parking charges in Ripon

Ripon BID is calling on North Yorkshire Council to urgently re-think its plans to increase parking charges, which it says will drive visitors away from the city.

The decision is due to be taken this Friday (February 27), and Ripon BID manager Lilla Bathurst — who is working in unison with her counterparts in affected towns across North Yorkshire — said:

“Market towns thrive when they are welcoming, accessible and easy to visit. These proposals move North Yorkshire in the opposite direction, and we urge the Council to pause, consult properly with business representatives, and work with us to find a fairer, more sustainable approach that protects both our local economy and our communities.”

Introduction of nighttime parking charges 🌙💷

In addition to the proposed hike in daytime tariffs — due to come into effect on April 1 and increase the cost of parking at all North Yorkshire Council–controlled car parks — the council is planning to introduce nighttime parking charges.

Lilla pointed out:

“Introducing charges after 6pm will be devastating for the evening economy, discouraging people from coming into town for meals, events and cultural activities.

At the same time, higher daytime tariffs will inevitably push more cars onto already pressured residential streets, creating conflict and reducing the quality of life for local communities.”

The most dramatic proposed increase is at The Arcade Car Park, where the current 80p tariff for an hour’s stay would rise by 175% to £2.20 📈.

James Potter, who opened new businesses The Greengrocer and The Little Truckle cheese shop in The Arcade last year, told Tim Flanagan of the Rejoicing in Ripon blog:

“North Yorkshire Council’s proposal to virtually triple the cost of parking at The Arcade Car Park is totally unacceptable and undermines the work that Lilla and her team at Ripon BID are doing to support both the daytime and nighttime economy of the city.

As a double whammy for businesses located in The Arcade such as ourselves, the council wants to hike the cost of parking on Market Square from £1.30 to £2.20 – which is another slap in the face for city centre traders.”

The current cost of parking for an hour at The Arcade Car Park is 80p.

BID member James Potter opened two new businesses in The Arcade last year.

The proposed cost of parking on Market Square would rise from £1.30 to £2.20.