North Somerset Council has told members it does not anticipate losing a High Court challenge to recently introduced parking charges in Clevedon town-centre car parks.
Background to the dispute
The charges came into force on 1 July, despite a legal hearing on a statutory review being listed later that month. The challenge was brought by a local businessman who argued the council gave the wrong reference number when consulting on plans to introduce charges in three Clevedon car parks.
Council stance and political reaction
Mark Canniford, the cabinet member with responsibility for parking, said the authority has taken legal advice and believes its position is sound. He told councillors the equipment purchased to operate the new charges could be reused if the council were to lose the case, which he said would mitigate any financial exposure to the authority.
“We do not feel we will lose the case.”
That comment was made in response to questioning from Michael Pryke, leader of the Conservative opposition on the council, who asked why the charges were implemented while the court hearing was imminent. The court has now heard the case, but the judgment will be provided in writing at an unspecified later date — potentially months away.
Local concerns over business and use
Opposition councillors and some traders have expressed concerns about the impact of the charges on local trade and car-park use. Clevedon West councillor Luke Smith said some of the town’s central car parks are now largely empty and claimed at least one business in nearby Nailsea has closed following charges being introduced there.
Mr Canniford countered that the effect is not uniform across all businesses, and that the council considered the wider context before proceeding. He also indicated the council would seek legal advice about the status of any penalties issued if it ultimately lost the case.
Practical implications while judgment awaits
With the written decision still pending, motorists in Clevedon will continue to encounter parking charges and enforcement in the affected car parks. The council’s position is that it acted within its powers; if the court rules otherwise, the authority says it will obtain further legal advice before deciding how to proceed on refunds or fines.
- When charges started: 1 July
- Where: three town-centre car parks in Clevedon
- Current status: hearing completed; written judgment to follow
| Issue | Current position |
|---|---|
| Introduction of charges | Implemented 1 July despite pending legal challenge |
| Court outcome | Awaiting written judgment |
| Council view | Confident it will not lose the case |
Residents and businesses seeking clarity about which car parks are affected, the level of charges or the appeals process should consult North Somerset Council’s parking pages or contact their local councillors while the court’s written ruling is awaited.
