Overview
- The AA's survey of 10,594 members, published in early August, found about a third of drivers would leave a resort straightaway or vow never to return when faced with day charges of £20 to £30.
- Several councils have raised day rates this summer while BCP Council in Bournemouth has reintroduced a month‑long trial of higher fines that rise to £110 or £160 for some offences.
- The AA found only about 1% of motorists would consider parking illegally rather than pay high fees, with most saying they would seek legal alternatives or visit a different town.
- Prices now vary widely: examples include Rother charging £30 for more than six hours at Camber Sands, Bournemouth day rates up to about £28 and Brighton car parks around £18, while many sites in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland remain free and Aberdeenshire asks for voluntary contributions.
- The AA and local businesses warn higher charges cut visitor spending and could neutralise the Government's VAT savings for family days out, and councils say tougher fines aim to stop dangerous or inconsiderate parking and will be reviewed after the summer trial.