Beauty spot car parking fee rises are ‘regrettably’ needed but should not come at the expensive of residents, councillors have said.
North Norfolk District Council is considering increasing fees at 30 of its sites in order to help balance the books.
The possible increase – the first in six years – would cover the car parks in Wells, Cromer and Weybourne, which are some of the region’s busiest in the summer months.
Read more: Restaurants in Norfolk – Norfolk’s top 10 ‘cheap eats’ according to TripAdvisor
Council officer Duncan Ellis, director of resources, told a meeting of the overview and scrutiny committee on Wednesday that car parking was a key pillar in helping balance the budget.
He said: “You look forward to 2025/26 we are forecasting a deficit of around £2.5m there is that ongoing pressure to generate income where we can from fees and charges.”
Mr Ellis added the increase is needed to help provide services, including lifeguards, additional street cleaning and litter bins.
Councillors did not object to the raise but differed on how they should change.
