Brighouse Parking Fees Set for 400% Increase Following Council Vote

Motorists in the town centre are set to experience a “drastic” 400% increase in parking fees, a change approved by local councillors. Specifically, the adjustments sanctioned by Calderdale Council will result in “premium” on-street parking spaces in Brighouse seeing their hourly rate climb from 40p to £2. Sarah Courtney, Calderdale Council’s cabinet member responsible for regeneration and transport, stated that the purpose of this increase is to promote the use of larger, off-street parking facilities, especially during periods of peak demand. Conversely, Councillor Howard Blagborough expressed concerns that these charges might discourage individuals from shopping in and visiting the town he represents. He further commented: “I’ve already seen one business relocate because residents are choosing to shop elsewhere to avoid parking charges.” Additionally, some on-street parking bays are slated for removal as part of a Town Deal regeneration initiative aimed at enhancing public spaces, including the market. Within Brighouse, the revised charges will affect short-stay parking locations on Commercial Street, Bradford Road, King Street, Market Street, Gooder Street, and Briggate. Individuals with a Blue Badge are exempt from these fees. The council meeting also revealed that certain parking areas in Halifax and Hebden Bridge will similarly fall under the new pricing framework. The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that the anticipated additional revenue from these changes is approximately £100,000 for the council. Ms Courtney explained that on-street tariffs are typically set higher to encourage drivers to opt for more affordable car parks and to prevent streets from becoming “clogged up” with vehicles awaiting available spaces. She also noted that an analysis indicated approximately 160 spaces remained available in Brighouse’s off-street car parks, even during peak hours.