Workplace parking levy powers granted in Scotland

Local authorities in Scotland can now implement workplace parking levy schemes and are being encouraged to do so by the Scottish Government.

The schemes, known as workplace parking licencing (WPL), would see employers pay an annual levy to the council for parking spaces they provide for employees, with revenue raised supporting the objectives set out in their local transport strategy.

Parking places reserved for Blue Badge holders, certain parking places at qualifying NHS premises and parking places at hospices will be exempt from any charge.

Local authorities who are proposing to implement WPL will have to undertake their own consultation and impact assessments on how it should be designed and operate in their area.

The development of regulations and guidance on implementing a WPL scheme supports the vision and priorities set out in the National Transport Strategy (NTS2) and progresses Scotland’s commitment to reach net-zero by 2045.

Minister for Transport Jenny Gilruth said: “The Workplace Parking Levy is a key tool which empowers local councils in encouraging people out of their cars and onto more sustainable modes of transport. This is vitally important if we are to reach a 20% reduction in car kilometres by 2030.

“The revenue generated by these schemes must support policies in local transport strategies; which allows local authorities to raise finance and invest it according to local need. The levy can also support improvements in public or active transport, making it more attractive and therefore encouraging individuals to leave their cars at home.

“Providing guidance so that local authorities can make use of their discretionary powers to implement a WPL scheme not only devolves more responsibility to local government – a key priority for the Scottish Government – it also supports the vision and priorities set out in our National Transport Strategy, to create a fairer, greener transport system for everyone in Scotland to share and benefit from.”

A workplace parking levy has been operating successfully in Nottingham for nearly 10 years.