ePetition - Provide Complimentary Visitor Parking Permits for Residents in Controlled Parking Zones

Brighton & Hove is a vibrant and densely populated city, but it is also a place where many people experience isolation and loneliness. A growing body of research shows that social connection plays a vital role in maintaining good mental health. For many residents—particularly those living alone, older residents, people with disabilities, and individuals experiencing mental health challenges—visits from friends and family provide essential emotional support and help prevent isolation.

Over the years, the expansion of Controlled Parking Zones across the city has made it increasingly difficult for visitors to park near the homes of residents. While the intention behind CPZs is understandable, the practical impact is that friends, carers, and family members often face limited parking availability and high parking charges simply to spend time with loved ones. This can unintentionally discourage visits, particularly for those on low incomes or travelling longer distances.

For residents who are already feeling isolated, this creates an additional barrier to maintaining meaningful social connections. The cost and difficulty of parking should not stand in the way of people receiving support, companionship, or care from those closest to them.

We therefore respectfully ask Brighton & Hove City Council to consider the following:

Provide each household within Controlled Parking Zones with a small annual allocation of complimentary visitor parking permits or digital guest passes.

Ensure these permits can be used for short visits by friends, family members, carers, or support networks.

Introduce the scheme in a way that is simple, fair, and limited in quantity so that it does not negatively impact parking availability.

Even a modest number of complimentary guest permits per year would make a meaningful difference. It would help residents maintain social connections, support mental wellbeing, and ensure that people living in Brighton & Hove are not unintentionally isolated by parking policy.

Our city should be one that supports community, connection, and wellbeing. Allowing residents a small number of free visitor permits is a practical and compassionate step toward achieving this.

We ask Brighton & Hove City Council to review this issue and work with residents to implement a fair solution.

This ePetition runs from 04/03/2026 to 22/07/2026.

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