Powys County Council will consider reintroducing one-hour parking tariffs at all long-stay car parks as part of a major shake-up of its parking strategy.

A council scrutiny committee will meet on Thursday, June 12, to examine the revised recommendations, which follow months of meetings, focus groups, discussions, data analysis and benchmarking exercises in the long-awaited car parking review.

The proposed changes include reinstating a one-hour parking option across all long-stay car parks.

Under the new plans, the tariff for up to one hour of parking would be set at £1.50. Two hours would cost £2.50, with four hours priced at £3.50. All-day parking would be capped at £5.

A new permit scheme is also on the table. The proposed permit would apply to a single, named car park and cost £280 annually, or be available in shorter terms: £155 for six months, £90 for three months, or £30 for a single month.

Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys, Cllr Jackie Charlton, said: “We appreciate that car parking arrangements in the county is a very emotive subject for our residents and businesses.

“It was really important that we took the time to consider all options and take on board the feedback from the review group, the scrutiny committee, our residents, businesses and visitors.

“There is still more work to do with regards to the long-term plans for parking arrangements in the county but, for now, we believe that these recommendations will be acceptable to our communities, as well as being a feasible, sustainable and affordable option for the council to deliver within our tight budget constraints.”

The car parking review was led by an independent consultant and involved a cross-party group of councillors, as well as representatives from town councils and local businesses where car parks are sited. In addition to tariffs, the group looked at broader issues including active travel, town centre footfall, and sustainable transport goals.