Increases in South Hams car parking charges - highest in Devon!

Figures released recently by Transport Minister, Tony McNulty, show that car parking income in the South Hams has increased by a massive 83% since 1997, the highest increase in Devon. This compares with increases of only 22% in Mid Devon and 28% in Torbay. Commenting on these figures Totnes Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate, Mike Treleaven said:

' These figures confirm what I have been saying for ages - the Council regard car park charges as a cash cow that can be increased at will. This year we have seen the disgraceful imposition of charges for the disabled, the reclassification of many car parks to put them in a higher charging bracket, and additional charges for parking after 6.00p.m.'

He continued:

'Across the country the average increase in this period has been around 50% and 60% of Devon's Councils keep to that. Year after year we have these increases which not only discourage tourists but penalize everyone who lives in the area. I only hope that the Council will take note of these figures when setting next year's budget.'