Isle of Wight budget proposals to increase and introduce parking charges across the Island have been denounced as ‘unfair’ and ‘short-sighted’.
County Hall’s Conservative group say the plans would reduce the number of limited time free parking bays and hit residents, businesses and town centres already facing ‘significant economic pressures’.
‘Most challenging’ budget in a decade
The council’s parking plans are part of a proposed budget described by officers as the ‘most challenging’ in ten years.
County Hall is facing a £20m Structural Deficit for 2026/27, according to a policy, finance and resources committee report.
Extra 25p per hour
The parking proposals include increasing existing on and off-street charges by 25p per hour and introducing fees at several locations such as Union Street in Ryde, Crocker Street in Newport, Sandown High Street and Shanklin’s Regent Street.
On street charges have also been proposed for St James Street in Newport, Egypt Esplanade in Cowes and Princes Esplanade in Gurnard.
In addition, there is a proposal for ‘pay and display’ parking at Fort Victoria Country Park.
Blake: Would risk discouraging people from supporting local businesses
Councillor Ed Blake, Conservative group leader, said,
“At a time when families are grappling with rising costs and our high streets are working hard to attract visitors and shoppers, increasing parking fees and removing free short-stay options sends entirely the wrong message.
“These proposals would risk discouraging people from supporting local businesses and will disproportionately affect residents, particularly the elderly and those on lower incomes.”
Call for limited-time free parking bays to remain
Conservative councillors see limited-time free parking bays as playing a vital role in supporting quick visits to shops, pharmacies, post offices, and other essential services.
Reducing their availability will undermine footfalls in town centres and create additional barriers for residents, the group believes.
The Policy, Finance and Resources Committee will consider the council’s budget plans this evening (Friday 20th February 2026) at 5pm.
County Hall has been approached for comment.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
