Brighton Parking Fees Could Skyrocket by 256% Under New Council Plans

Drivers in Brighton have been issued a stark warning as parking fees in the city could surge by an astonishing 256 percent. Brighton and Hove Council has unveiled proposals to significantly raise parking charges for the 2026/27 financial year, just one year after implementing a freeze on all parking costs.

The proposed increases vary depending on location, but the most dramatic change is set for the "Seafront Summer (Bringing in East of Arch)" zone. Here, the hourly rate is projected to leap from £1.60 to £5.70, representing a staggering 256 percent increase. For two hours of parking, the cost would rise from £3.30 to £9.80, a hike of 197 percent.

Detailed Breakdown of Proposed Parking Fee Hikes

The council's plans outline further substantial increases across various parking durations and zones:

Four-hour parking would jump from £7 to £16.50.
A new six-hour charge of £20.70 would be introduced.
The 11-hour rate would more than double, increasing from £11.80 to £24.90.

Additionally, a new single seafront tariff will be implemented, covering the area from Madeira Drive to the King Alfred Leisure Centre. At Madeira Drive, in the zone referred to as "Bringing in New Steine," summer prices for one hour would rise from £3.30 to £5.70, a 72 percent increase. Two-hour parking would go up from £7.40 to £9.80.

At Black Rock car park, a new six-hour tariff of £13 would be added, while the maximum 12-hour stay would increase from £12.10 to £18, marking a 48 percent rise.

Council Response and Rationale

Councillor Trevor Muten addressed the proposed changes, stating, "It's important we keep the cost of parking in the city simple and fair. We were able to freeze all parking charges in 25/26, and we've worked hard to ensure fees and charges remain reasonable for 26/27 while also recognising our budget challenges."

The council emphasizes that these adjustments are necessary to address budgetary pressures while maintaining a balanced approach to parking management. The proposals come after a period of stability, with the previous year's freeze providing temporary relief to drivers.

Residents and visitors are urged to review the detailed plans as the council moves forward with consultations and final decisions. The potential impact on daily commuters, tourists, and local businesses could be significant, prompting widespread discussion on the affordability and accessibility of parking in Brighton.