Parking charges in Brighouse town center to be increased by 400 per cent

Motorists face a “significant” 400% increase in city center parking charges following a decision by councillors.

The changes, approved by Calderdale Council, mean the cost of “premium” on-street spaces in Brighouse will rise from 40p to £2 per hour.

Sarah Courtney, the council’s cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said the increase was to encourage people to use larger, off-street facilities at times of high demand.

But councilor Howard Blagborough said the charges risked deterring people from shopping and visiting the town he represents.

He added: “I have already seen one business move because residents are choosing to do their shopping elsewhere to avoid parking fees.”

Street bays will also be removed as part of the Town Deal regeneration project to improve public spaces such as the market.

In Brighouse, the new charges will apply to short-term accommodation on Commercial Street, Bradford Road, King Street, Market Street, Gooder Street and Briggate. Blue Badge holders are exempt.

The council meeting heard that some areas in Halifax and Hebden Bridge would also be subject to the new pricing structure.

according to Local Democracy Reporting ServiceThe increased income will save the council around £100,000.

Ms Courtney said street tariffs were often higher to encourage drivers to use cheaper car parks and to prevent the streets from becoming “clogged” by cars waiting for space.

He added that analysis found there were approximately 160 parking spaces available in off-street car parks in Brighouse, even at peak times.

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