NEW parking charges come into force in Brighton and Hove today.

The changes, which were agreed by members of the city council's environment, transport and sustainability committee in January and then by Budget Council in February, mean it will cost more to park in some places.

Brighton and Hove City Council said the changes are aimed at improving air quality, journey times, reducing congestion and encouraging active and sustainable travel.

Resident parking permits in Controlled Parking Zones (CPZ) will increase by six per cent in areas where there is a full scheme and nine per cent in light touch scheme zones, where parking is restricted between certain hours.

In light touch areas such as West Hove, Hove Park, Hanover and Elm Grove, Coombe Road, Wish Road and South Portslade, it will now cost £120 for a 12-month permit on a standard emission vehicle. 

The cost for a high emission vehicle, defined as a vehicle that produces 166g/km or more CO2 emissions, has risen to £210. 

Drivers in Brunswick and Adelaide, Central Brighton North and Central Brighton South, which are high demand areas, will pay £220 for 12 months on a standard emission vehicle.

Traders' permits for annual and three-month periods will increase by an average five per cent while monthly, weekly and daily periods are frozen.

An annual permit will now cost £800 for a standard vehicle. 

Business permits have also been frozen for 2022/23 in a bid to support local businesses and services.

There will be an increase to high, medium and low tariffs for on-street parking across the city of an average of 15 per cent.

Parking charges at council car parks including Trafalgar Street, The Lanes, Regency Square and London Road will increase by 15 per cent.

The cost to park for an hour in The Lanes car park and Trafalgar Street has risen from £4 to £4.50.

Motorists parking in London Road will now pay £2.50 for one hour and £4 in Regency Square car park.