Popular city centre hikes parking charges amid serious pressures impacting all drivers - 'I despair'

The change, which came into force on October 1, was to help align parking costs with wider economic factors caused by remnants of the cost-of-living crisis.

A Winchester City Council spokesperson described the increase as "inflationary" and emphasised that it only affects the city's central parking zone.

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The rise has sparked frustration among some residents, who view it as part of broader parking issues in the city centre.

Fred White, in a letter to the Chronicle, claimed that residents in Q and R parking zones were being "disregarded and disrespected" by councillors after raising concerns about insufficient parking in their area.

The increase comes after ongoing confusion over Sunday parking arrangements and the division of parking governance between local authorities.

One local resident claimed: "I think anyone within a mile of the city should pay a higher off-street parking premium. As they essentially are able to utilise a facility which those travelling into the city are penalised...But as most Councillors [are] city dwellers, I doubt they would agree".

Another resident expressed frustration over the lack of alternative transport options, stating: "It is a disgrace to keep increasing parking charges when there are no buses available for people to use alternative transport!"

Adding to the confusion, residents are unsure whether they will retain access to free parking in car parks on Sundays, when on-street parking is free for visitors.

The governance of parking in Winchester is split between two councils, which has caused a lot of the confusion. Hampshire County Council manages on-street parking, while Winchester City Council oversees car parks.

A Hampshire County Council spokesperson stated: "We are aware of a historic arrangement that Winchester City Council had in place with some residents with on-street parking permits, allowing them to park in the City Council's car parks at certain times."

The council added that this arrangement predated the transfer of on-street parking responsibility to the County Council on October 1, 2023.

The spokesperson noted it would be for the city council to comment on whether any such arrangements might continue, as they retain responsibility for car parks.

This division of responsibilities has contributed to the ongoing confusion over parking rules and privileges for residents.

Despite the parking charge increase, a spokesperson for Winchester City Council said: "The park and walk car parks which are just a short walk from the city centre haven't changed. They all offer a free one-hour parking, and are also free to park in on evenings and Sundays too."

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These car parks include Chesil Street Multi Storey, River Park, Cattle Market, and Worthy Lane, But the council emphasised that there are no changes to Park and Ride services.

Another resident shared on Facebook: “Winchester is a disgrace and an embarrassment. The pavements are broken in so many places, parking is ridiculously expensive, the high street is dying. Chichester and Salisbury are so much nicer. I despair.”