The initiative, set to begin in early November, aims to provide more affordable parking options and encourage the use of lower-emission vehicles. Up to 100 discounted permits will be available, with savings ranging from 5% to 20% based on a vehicle's carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.
Permits are open to individuals working for town-centre businesses who pay for their own parking, as well as businesses that cover parking costs for their employees. Holders can use any available space on floors A–E of the Northgate End car park. The permits are virtual, eliminating the need to display anything in the vehicle, and can be paid for monthly or annually.
Cllr Tim Hoskin, East Herts Council’s Executive Member for Environmental Sustainability, highlighted the pilot's dual purpose: supporting the town centre workforce and promoting cleaner travel. He noted that potential annual savings of up to £200 could be significant, acknowledging that lower-emission and electric vehicles are not universally accessible. The scheme offers tiered discounts rather than restricting eligibility to zero-emission vehicles, and participation is optional. Northgate End car park remains the most affordable parking option in Bishop's Stortford.
Karen Burton from Bishop’s Stortford BID expressed support for the pilot, viewing it as an opportunity to test a new approach and gather practical insights. Businesses and employees are encouraged to share their experiences and any barriers to benefiting from the scheme, as their feedback will inform the review process.
Northgate End currently charges £4.40 daily. Permit prices are calculated against a baseline annual cost of £998.80, based on parking for 227 working days at the standard daily rate. Vehicles emitting more than 170g/km of CO₂ will not be eligible. The pricing is based on regular full-time parking during charging hours, and the pilot review will consider demand from those with different working patterns.
Each permit is linked to a single vehicle registration number, allowing emissions to be checked against DVLA records. Businesses can apply for multiple permits, each assigned to a specific vehicle. The pilot will run until the end of the financial year, after which East Herts Council and Bishop’s Stortford BID will review the outcomes to determine future steps, including potential expansion or modification.
