New data from Powys County Council has revealed that Newtown Car Parks, owned and ran by the county council have generated more than £200,000 in this financial year.

In a question to the Cabinet Member for Finance, Councillor David Thomas by Councillor Pete Lewington (Newtown West - Conservative) about the income and potential income from the astronomical increases in short stay parking charges.

The data has revealed that Back Lane Car Park has brought in £144,579.55 since April 2022 and the Gravel Car Park has brought in £64,435.60 in the same period.

It is estimated that revenue from the two car parks could increase by approximately £31,000 per year due to the changes in short stay parking charges.

When asked how the forecasts were calculated and if the potential loss of revenue from fewer car park users and other related factors, such as fewer customers leading to more town centre business closures, were taken into consideration, Councillor Thomas explained that the forecasts were based on the assumption that some short stay users would migrate to other options such as walking/cycling or finding alternative parking.

However, Councillor Thomas acknowledged that any assumptions made at this stage are only estimates, and the actual impact of the proposed charges will be unknown. He also noted that by not increasing the all day tariff and only slightly increasing the up to 4 hours tariff, the council hopes to encourage people to visit towns for longer.

The proposed increase in short stay parking charges has caused concern among some residents, with fears that it may discourage people from visiting the town centre and harm local businesses.

*Income from Gas Street Car Parks is included in Gravel Car Parks