Commuters hog free parking spaces in Wetherby after charges introduced
Free parking spaces at public buildings are being taken by commuters after charged were introduced in Wetherby.
Commuters have been hogging free parking spaces at public buildings in Wetherby after charges were introduced elsewhere in the town.
Three-hour time limits could be brought in at a leisure centre, sports club and council One Stop building to tackle the problem.
A Leeds City Council report said it started after fees were brought in at Station Gardens and Wilderness car parks.
There was currently nothing to stop commuters parking all day in the free car parks, leading to staff and customers struggling find spaces.
The report said: “Parking charges were introduced in two long-stay car parks in Wetherby in October 2025.
“This has created pressure on other council car parks in the town that currently have no restrictions as commuters seek a free space.
“This is causing operational difficulties, for example people unable to park to attend appointments, swimming lessons and sports fixtures.”
Time limits were planned for the One Stop, along with Wetherby Leisure Centre and Wetherby Sports Association.
The report said: “Having discussed the matter with the relevant services a three-hour time limit is proposed.
“This is long enough to allow service users to attend without being vulnerable to commuter use.”
A permit scheme was also proposed to allow longer stays for staff and users of the centres. The report said: “Restrictions will apply Monday–Saturday ,8am-6pm.”
A fourth car park, Crossley Street, currently has a two-hour restriction which is set to be extended to three hours.
The report said: “We have received requests from groups using the nearby church hall and Wetherby Cinema to allow a longer stay.”