The Labour Council doubles the cost of EV parking permits but cuts price of high-emission ones
A controversial decision by Labour‑run Dover District Council has sparked frustration among residents and environmental campaigners. From 13 January 2025, the cost of an annual on‑street parking permit for electric vehicles (EVs) will jump from £40 to £105 — a huge 162% increase. Meanwhile, owners of the most polluting petrol and diesel cars will see their fee reduced from £120 to £105.
The move has raised eyebrows nationwide, with many questioning whether the decision aligns with the UK’s wider push toward cleaner, greener motoring.
Why Has the Council Increased EV Parking Costs?
The council argues that its previous emissions‑based pricing structure simply didn’t work. Since launching the scheme in 2021, the uptake of EV permits has been minimal:
- Only 20 permits issued for fully electric cars
- Just 14 permits issued for low‑emission hybrids
According to the council, the incentive wasn’t enough to influence residents’ vehicle‑buying decisions — so they’ve opted for a flat‑rate system instead.
Why Are High‑Emission Vehicles Now Cheaper to Park?
Under the new flat‑rate structure:
- EVs: £40 → £105
- High‑emission vehicles: £120 → £105
The council says this creates a “fairer” system for residents who rely on on‑street parking. But critics argue the opposite — that the decision actively disincentivises cleaner vehicles.
If you’re weighing up whether an EV still makes financial sense, this guide may help you once you read all about whether an electric car or a petrol car is cheaper to run.
Environmental Campaigners Call the Move “Silly” and “Strange”
Green Party councillors and environmental groups have strongly criticised the decision, calling it:
- “Bizarre”
- “Counterintuitive”
- “Unhelpful to the planet”
Their argument is simple: Why penalise EV owners at a time when the government is trying to encourage cleaner motoring?
Campaigners warn the move could discourage residents from switching to electric vehicles — especially with EVs already facing rising costs elsewhere.
Does This Align With National EV Policy?
Not really.
The decision clashes with broader government efforts to boost EV adoption. For example:
- From April 2025, EVs will begin paying standard VED (car tax)
- Government purchase incentives ended in 2022
- EVs are already more expensive upfront than petrol or diesel cars
With costs rising across the board, many believe councils should be supporting — not penalising — EV drivers.
Could Heavier EVs Face Even Higher Charges in Future?
EVs are typically up to 40% heavier than petrol or diesel equivalents. If councils introduce weight‑based parking charges in future, EV drivers could be hit again.
This has raised concerns that the Dover decision may be the start of a wider trend — one that could make EV ownership less appealing at a time when the UK is trying to reduce emissions.
Final Thoughts
Dover District Council’s decision to double EV parking permit costs while cutting fees for high‑emission vehicles has sparked a heated debate. Supporters say the flat‑rate system is fairer. Critics argue it undermines national climate goals and sends the wrong message to drivers considering an EV.
Whether this move will influence EV uptake — or inspire similar decisions in other councils — remains to be seen.
And if you’re not sure on whether a brand new electric vehicle is for you, our article could help you weigh up whether a second hand one could be worth it.
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