Plans to introduce parking charges on Bristol city centre workplaces have faced significant criticism from hotel executives in the area.
Bristol City Council has recently approved proposals to develop an outline business case for a levy that would see companies with free parking spaces charged £20 a week. Businesses will need to decide whether to absorb these costs or pass them on to employees. The local authority anticipates that the move could raise up to £10 million, with the proceeds earmarked for improving Bristol’s public transport system.
The proposed levy could affect approximately 9,000 employees who currently enjoy free parking in Bristol. However, exceptions might be made for disabled individuals dependent on private vehicles, hospital workers, and other specific groups.
The Bristol Hoteliers Association (BHA), representing the interests of hotels around the city, has described the plans as “another blow” to the sector. BHA Chair Raphael Herzog stated, “The nature of our business means we have staff making very early starts and very late finishes, when access to alternative forms of getting to and from work is limited.”
Mr Herzog also highlighted the financial pressures already faced by the hospitality industry, stating, “Earlier this year, we were hit with having to take on the costs of the increased national wage and this feels like another blow to our businesses, which the city council should be supporting.”
While acknowledging the importance of reducing carbon emissions and alleviating congestion, Mr Herzog stressed the need for “viable and efficient alternatives” for commuters. He further expressed disappointment over the lack of consultation with hotel businesses regarding the levy, commenting, “We’re disappointed that we were not consulted about plans to introduce this workplace parking levy; we found out about it through media reports.”
Mr Herzog also attributed a difficult summer of low occupancy rates to a combination of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, unpredictable weather, and an increase in the number of people travelling abroad. As an alternative measure, the BHA has urged the council to consider charging Airbnb properties for licences, arguing that such a move could generate additional income for transportation investments and demonstrate confidence in local businesses.
Mr Herzog concluded with a call for support from councillors, urging them to ensure that hospitality businesses are included among those exempted from the proposed charges.
The proposed workplace parking levy in Bristol has sparked significant concern among hotel executives, who argue it presents an additional financial burden on an already struggling sector. They are calling for alternative measures and greater consultation to ensure the city’s businesses are adequately supported.
