Plans to scrap free parking at popular West Midlands beauty spots have ignited a wave of anger among residents and visitors. Worcestershire County Council is proposing to introduce charges at car parks serving locations including the Worcester Woods Countryside Centre.
Council Budget Pressures Drive Controversial Move
The council states the move could generate an estimated £90,000 in the next financial year. This proposal forms part of a broader package of measures designed to help bridge a daunting £72 million funding shortfall in the authority's budget.
Council finance chief, Rob Wharton, explained the severe financial context. He cited "relentless demand and cost increases" in critical services like children's and adult social care. With a largely fixed budget and limited income-raising powers, the council says it must explore every saving and revenue opportunity.
The proposals are included in a cabinet paper, with recommendations due to go before the full council for approval on January 15, 2026. If agreed, they will form part of the draft 2026/27 budget, with a final vote scheduled for the end of February.
Residents Warn of Negative Consequences
The reaction from the local community has been overwhelmingly negative. Many fear the charges will deter people from enjoying the outdoor spaces the council often promotes.
"I think it's a poorly thought out decision by the council. It should remain free for all," said resident Jo Rammell. "One minute they are telling us the benefits of being outside in the fresh air then attempting to prevent that benefit."
Louise Williams Winnall raised concerns about the impact on community groups, noting: "200 children benefit weekly from attending a scouting group [at Worcester Woods]. It would be awful if some of those start to miss out because of car park charges."
Others predicted the policy would simply displace parking problems. Louise Jenkins suggested the issue was misuse by those not using the facilities, stating: "All it will do is force families to park on local streets and in Warndon Villages, to then walk over." This view was echoed by former county councillor Emma Marshall, who urged the council to consider the impact on nearby residential streets.
Calls for Ringfencing and Fair Pricing
Not all comments were entirely opposed, but they came with significant conditions. Darren Mansell commented: "I'm kind of in the middle. As long as it's reasonably priced (less than a pound for a couple of hours) and the meters work... then it's not too much bother."
He added a crucial caveat shared by many: "The money has to be ringfenced for improvement and upkeep of the areas though, it shouldn't just be a backfill for other funding gaps."
Meanwhile, some residents, like dog walker Gillian Waidson, said they would simply take their custom elsewhere, expressing sympathy for local businesses like the on-site cafe that might suffer from reduced footfall.
The council has indicated that some proposals will require further detailed work before any action is taken, leaving a window for continued public debate on the future of access to the region's cherished green spaces.
