New parking permit proposals 'in line with other councils'
Councillors agree 'wellbeing discount' for downland parking.
For nearly 30 years, the council has subsidised parking in council-owned car parks and other parking areas, but with the funding for public services in Eastbourne under the 'greatest financial pressures in living memory,' a new permit system is required.
The underfunding of local government and unprecedented costs of homelessness and temporary accommodation in Eastbourne have resulted in savings of £7.6 million and changes in the way some services are operated. The council has been spending up to £5 million a year on temporary accommodation, which equates to 49p in every pound of council tax collected by the authority.
Councillor Colin Swansborough, Cabinet Member for Community Spaces, said:
"Local authorities in the UK are undoubtedly experiencing the greatest financial pressures in living memory and we are having to make difficult decisions to ensure services can be maintained. Many other councils are closing facilities altogether, but we are doing all we can in Eastbourne to avoid that. One measure is to bring parking arrangements in line with other councils, while also remaining fair to residents and sustainable for council finances."
The new permit scheme would replace the old Leisure Card immediately, and the Bowls Club and Seafront Permits following their expiry dates.
The price of the permit would be based on the cost of parking for one hour per day in one of our off-street car parks - an approach to permit pricing that is widely used across local authorities and also reflects the market rates of parking in Eastbourne.
A permit would mean unlimited daily access to your chosen carpark for a flat fee (in accordance with each car park's hours of operation).
The option of pay and display (pay as you go) parking would still be available for anyone without a permit.
The proposed annual seasonal permit cost in Eastbourne is £550 to £1,400, which compares with Hastings - £580 to £1,040; Horsham - £924 to £1,456; Rother - £335 to £1,264 and Worthing - £1,147 to £1,277.
In recognition of the wide range of health benefits, the council will continue to offer discounted parking for visitors to the South Downs National Park,
Councillor Swansborough added:
"We are fortunate to live in one of the most sought-after areas of the UK, and easy access to the downland is a big part of that appeal. In recognition of thousands of residents who enjoy walking, running and cycling on the downs, a wellbeing discount will be applied to council operated car parks in the area."
The consultation runs until Friday, 4 April 2025. To have your say and for more information, visit:
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