Charges could soon be introduced to free parking sites across North West Wales, as council leaders attempt to cover central government funding cuts.
A report to be considered by Gwynedd Council on Thursday will recommend changing parking charges in the county for the first time since 2007.
The parking review will advise introduction of pay and display arrangements to as many as 23 free to use municipal car parks.
Cllr Dafydd Meurig, Gwynedd Council cabinet member who leads on parking matters said: ‘The structure that is recommended sets out a clear direction for fair and effective parking management in Gwynedd for the future
‘Research shows that effective parking management makes a positive contribution towards the local economy.
‘As part of the new arrangements, we would also replace the current ad-hoc free Christmas parking with a new firm commitment to providing free parking every year in the run-up to Christmas to encourage local people to support Gwynedd shops and businesses during the festive period.’
While parking fees have been frozen in Gwynedd for the past eight years, current plans will see fares bought in line with changes to inflation and VAT.
Measures to be considered by the council cabinet will include aligning parking fees with numerous local considerations. Five distinct charging bands would take into account factors including the number of shops in a town or village and whether the site is a market town, tourist destination or popular leisure location.
The proposals would introduce short stay car parks to the centre of towns in a bid to encourage a regular turnover of shoppers.
Some fees in long-stay car parks could also fall under the new structure as the town hall attempts to encourage the local community to spend more time in towns and villages.
It is understood that blue badge or disabled holders that previously benefit from free parking could also be charged for annual tickets.
Gwynedd Council confirmed any money raised by the new measures would be re-invested into improving local parking provision or other public services faced with falling funds.
