Council Proposes Scrapping Of Free Parking Locations Across The Isle Of Wight

The Isle of Wight Council has set out plans to introduce paid parking at seven additional locations across the Isle of Wight as part of its latest budget proposals.

Under the plans, new pay-and-display zones could be introduced at St James’ Street in Newport, Egypt Esplanade in Cowes, Princes Esplanade in Gurnard, and Fort Victoria near Yarmouth.

Charges are also being proposed for on-street bays in several busy areas, including Union Street in Ryde, Crocker Street in Newport, Sandown High Street in Sandown, and Regent Street in Shanklin.

The council says the proposals come amid what it describes as exceptional financial pressures.

If approved, the changes are expected to generate an additional £162,000 in revenue during the 2026/27 financial year.

The plans follow a period at the end of 2025 when council-owned long-stay car parks were free between midday and 6pm to support local businesses.

The proposals are due to be discussed by a committee on 20 February, before being considered by Full Council at a later date.