Plans to hike parking charges in Southampton have been revealed.

Southampton City Council looks set to introduce new tariffs for off-street and on-street parking.

These will be in place between 8am and 8pm for on-street parking and 8am and midnight for off-street.

This means it will no longer be cheaper to park between 6pm and 8pm.

In the council’s words, this move will ‘simplify’ parking within the city centre, despite making it more costly for motorists.

Improving air quality is one of the key reasons for the proposals, with an aim of encouraging drivers to ‘consider alternative means of transport’.

Councillor Keogh, cabinet member for environment and transport, said the decision to increase charges was ‘not taken lightly’.

He said: “Our tariffs need to be more reflective of other similar local authorities, but we believe we have maintained a competitive offer to ensure Southampton City Centre remains an attractive destination for visitors.

“City centre residents will still have access to reduced priced season tickets, while night-time economy workers can make use of the overnight season ticket, priced at £150 per year.

“The council needs to cover the increasing costs of providing parking services and any surplus on street revenue will be used for transport, highways and parking projects, including repair of potholes.”

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A consultation for these changes opened today and residents can visit this page to have their say.

Season ticket prices for city centre parking will not be increased at this time but may be subject to review in due course.

Pay tariffs in the city centre have not been increased for 10 years.