Petition Against the 500%+ Increase in Parking Charges at Bishopthorpe Road Car Park

To:The Micklegate Ward Councillors; Councillor Jonny Crawshaw, Councillor Jane Burton and Councillor Peter Kilbane. Councilor Kate Ravilious (Executive Member for Transport). James Gilchrist (Director of Environment, Transport and Planning)

We, the undersigned, strongly object to the proposed increases in car parking charges at the Bishopthorpe Road car park. The proposed charges represent an unprecedented rise of over 500% during the week and over 560% on Fridays and Saturdays. The changes are as follows:

Up to 1 hour: from £0.80 to £4.85 (£5.30 on Fri/Sat)

1–2 hours: from £1.60 to £9.70 (£10.60 on Fri/Sat)

2–3 hours: from £4.50 to £11.20 (£13.50 on Fri/Sat)

After 6pm: from Free to £4.00

These increases are unreasonable, unaffordable, and damaging to the local community. Bishopthorpe Road is a vibrant, independent high street with small businesses that rely heavily on footfall from both local residents and visitors. These proposed charges risk:

Deterring Bishy Road shoppers and diners.

Undermining the viability of independent businesses already facing economic strain

Disproportionately impacting older residents, lower income families, parents with children, and those with limited mobility or no access to alternative transport

We call on the City of York Council to stop these excessive increases and engage meaningfully with local residents, traders, and community groups to find a fairer, balanced solution that supports sustainable travel without punishing everyday people.

Please scrap the proposed charges and protect the accessibility and vitality of Bishopthorpe Road.