Residents of Birmingham are set to face new parking charges at three of the city's most popular green spaces in 2026, following controversial budget plans pushed forward by the cash-strapped local authority.
Controversial Plans for Park Upkeep
The Labour-run Birmingham City Council, grappling with a severe financial crisis, has approved proposals to introduce fees for parking at Sutton Park, Sheldon Country Park, and Lickey Hills Country Park. The move, agreed as part of the 2025/26 budget, aims to generate necessary savings and contribute to the upkeep of the city's 660 parks and green spaces.
A formal public consultation on the plans was launched in August 2025, meeting significant resistance. The council argues that charging will bring Birmingham in line with other UK destinations and help manage issues like displacement parking for nearby residents. "Access to the park remains free – charges are not to use the park but only to park a vehicle," the authority stated.
Political Opposition and Public Discontent
The proposals have ignited strong opposition from other political parties and the public. With an all-out council election scheduled for May 2026, the local Conservatives have pledged to scrap the charges if they win power.
Councillor Robert Alden, leader of the opposition, labelled the fees as "unfair, unjustified and completely out of touch", arguing they disproportionately affect less wealthy residents who must drive to access the parks. The Liberal Democrats and Reform UK have also voiced strong objections, citing concerns over financial barriers and increased anti-social parking in neighbouring streets.
Public consultation feedback revealed clear opposition:
- Lickey Hills: 78.4% of respondents (919 people) wanted free access to remain.
- Sutton Park: 68.2% (2,741 respondents) opposed charges.
- Sheldon Country Park: 65.9% (120 respondents) were against the plan.
Proposed Charges and Council Justification
Despite the backlash, the council has proceeded with revised charging schemes, lower than initially proposed. Cabinet member for environment, Councillor Majid Mahmood, confirmed there would be a 30-minute grace period and free permits for park volunteers.
The proposed annual permit will cost £52 at all three locations. Daily charges are as follows:
Lickey Hills & Sutton Park: £1 per hour up to 4 hours, £5.00 all day. Chargeable hours are 9am to 6pm, year-round.
Sheldon Country Park: £0.75 per hour up to 3 hours, £3.50 all day. Same operating hours apply.
The council acknowledges the charges are unpopular but insists projected income still won't cover the full maintenance costs. It states that surplus revenue will be reinvested into park improvements, biodiversity projects, and infrastructure repairs. Implementation could begin around Christmas or New Year 2026, subject to final approvals.
