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Reading Council Proposes Emissions-Based Parking Charges with Sliding Scale

January, 14, 2025-05:15

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Reading Council Proposes Emissions-Based Parking Charges with Sliding Scale

Reading Council is considering a proposal that would increase parking fees for petrol and diesel vehicles based on their carbon dioxide emissions. Under the plan, all petrol vehicles would face a minimum increase of 20% in parking charges, while diesel vehicles would see a 25% rise. The new fees would be calculated according to different emissions bands, with the lowest band ranging from 151 to 170g/km, and the highest being over 255g/km.

For example, a Ford Focus (1.0 Eco Boost) emitting between 151 to 170g/km would see its parking charge rise by 60p, from £3 to £3.60 for an hour of parking. On the other hand, a larger vehicle such as a Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G 63 AMG), which emits more CO2, would face a much higher increase, paying £6 for an hour of parking—double the current fee. The council's report suggests that future reviews could consider a combined weight and emissions scheme, or even introduce a size-based tariff similar to Paris' "Land Rover tax."

This could mean stricter regulations for larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks. Reading Council has cited Oxford and Bristol as examples of cities that are considering similar emissions-based parking schemes. These proposals are part of a broader push to encourage greener transport options and reduce the environmental impact of vehicle emissions. As discussions continue, the proposed changes are expected to have a significant impact on the cost of parking, particularly for drivers of higher-emission vehicles.