Labour Councillor hits out at new parking charges in Glasgow

Scottish Labour Councillor Philip Braat believes that hiking the prices of parking in Glasgow isn’t the answer to setting a legally balanced budget.  

Glasgow City Council recently announced that charges will rise up to 25% and controlled parking zones across the city will be in place until 10pm.  

The parking charges in city centre zones will increase from £1.40 to £1.60 for 15 minutes – which is a rise of 14%.  

There will also be no free parking after 6pm at weekends.  

The council said the increase is to raise money towards a £107 million budget shortfall and encourage people to use more sustainable transport.  

Braat, the Lord Provost of Glasgow from 2020 until 2022, said that: “For many people, even those who live in the city centre and surrounding neighbourhoods, a car is not a luxury but often a necessity. 

“With the present lack of an efficient, affordable and sustainable public transport system, there is no viable alternative yet.” 

The 22 controlled parking zones across Glasgow will be standardised to operate from 8am to 10pm every day.  

He also fears for the effect it will have on residents of Glasgow: “I fear that these increases in all forms will again hit the most vulnerable and poorest in our communities.” 

Ros Stewart, a resident of Glasgow, is outraged by the rise in charges: “If my mum comes to visit me, she has to pay £10 for the privilege. This will hit residents and small businesses the most. This is too far.” 

Another unhappy resident, Kieran Young, said: “I won’t be coming into the city at all now. Say goodbye to the nightlife for families in particular. It’s already a disgrace, events will also now suffer.” 

The charges will also go up again in 2025 to £1.80 for 15 minutes and again the following year to £2 for 15 minutes.  

There is no date for when the change in hours will take place.