Last updated on 13 July 2025
In April 2025 we reported that Kingston Council was putting up its parking charges by a whopping 200% in some areas of the borough. Chessington resident and local tutor, Gia Borg Darcy, set up a petition against the parking charge hike which has received enough signatures for it to be heard at a Full Council meeting on 8th July 2025.
The petition attracted over 1,200 signatures when it closed on 21st June. As it has exceeded the council-set threshold of 1,000 signatures, the motion will be debated by the Full Council.
Gia tells CDRA what she plans to ask the council at the meeting on 8th July: “I will be asking the council for no more unfair parking price hikes! For fair and affordable off-street parking for all Kingston residents, businesses, workers, and visitors; for a 50% increase not 300%; and for transparency and accountability from our council.”
In April, we reported that the price has increased from £1.10 to £3.10 for an hour’s parking in Tolworth. “Residents are being forced to pay for two hours even if they only need one. Whether you park for one hour or two, the cost is the same—this is neither reasonable nor fair. Furthermore, if you do require one hour you are also losing your initial 30 minutes free” said Gia.
The Full Council meeting was on Tuesday 8th July 2025 at Guildhall. Gia organised a rally outside Guildhall in advance of the meeting. Read Gia’s speech.
Of the parking charge rise, Kingston Council said this was “to ensure the operating costs incurred in providing, maintaining and enhancing the service, are covered and to assist the Council in its duties to maintain and ensure a safe and efficient road network that meets the needs of all road users.”
See the Council’s parking charges for across the borough.
Keep up to date with Gia’s campaign through her Facebook page.