Parking charges increase in Salisbury

Final few days to have your say on parking charges consultation

Wiltshire Council has proposed increasing parking charges by an average of 20% in 2026, extending charging hours to 7am-7pm, and introducing Sunday charges, with a further 5% rise in 2028. A consultation on these Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) is open until 5 May 2026.

Key Impacts on Salisbury

The proposals are expected to have a significant impact on Salisbury, already the most expensive area for parking in the county.

• Removal of Free Parking: The free parking after 3 pm in the Culver Street car park is set to be removed.
• Sunday Charges: On-street Sunday parking charges will be introduced, and existing Sunday charges will be aligned with higher weekday rates.
• Extended Hours: Charges will apply from 7 am to 7 pm, rather than 8 am to 6 pm, increasing costs for residents and workers.
• Permit Fees: Residents' visitor parking permits will increase from 40p to 60p, and a £20 annual fee will be introduced for permits that were previously free.

Council Position vs. Local Concern

Wiltshire Council states the increases are necessary to align with the 2026-2030 Parking Plan, covering rising operational costs, and to ensure fairness, as tariffs have not changed since 2022.

However, concerns have been raised by local residents and officials that the increase will negatively impact the local economy, visitors, and low-income workers, arguing that this reflects a misunderstanding of the city's socio-economic needs.

How to Respond

Residents and businesses can submit their views to the Wiltshire Council Traffic Order Team before the consultation closes on May 5, 2026

You can have your say using the online form on this page: https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/17245/TRO-Consultation-on-proposed-Changes-to-Pay-and-Display-Parking-in-Wiltshire or by emailing trafficorderconsultations@wiltshire.gov.uk