South Hams District Council’s Executive has reached a decision on Dartmouth’s Park and Ride, after having delayed proposals and considering feedback from local partners.

The newly proposed parking and travel arrangements aim to meet the current demand, address the town’s needs, and reduce overall costs.

Cllr Cathy Campos, Dartmouth Deputy Mayor and Dartmouth Town Councillor, said: “Dartmouth Town Council is very relieved to have been given the opportunity to work with South Hams District Council on modifying their original proposals for the Dartmouth Park and Ride.”

“We feel the new proposals are a fair compromise and support them.”

The Park and Ride service will operate during the peak summer season from May 25 to September 15.

The service will be available during the Easter holidays, Dartmouth Music Festival, Regatta and Food Festival periods.

The Park and Ride all-day return ticket price has been reduced to £7.50 from the originally proposed £10.

As part of cost management efforts, whilst still promoting tourism, coach parking fees will increase to £10.

Cllr Victor Abbott, the Executive Member for Community Services and Operations said: "For 14 years we haven’t raised the Park and Ride prices, while costs around us have kept rising.”

“When we have the technology in place, we will work on a residents’ permit and the potential of a combined Lower Ferry and Park and Ride one too. We’re doing everything we can to get the best deal for Dartmouth for this service with the finances available.”

Various permit options will be offered, including a Park and Ride 12-month permit.  

Stagecoach, the current service provider, will continue operating the Park and Ride Service following a review.

Improved access to the Park and Ride and Health Hub will also be facilitated through the No.92 bus service, which has been negotiated between the Council and Stagecoach to ensure easier public access to the Health Hub.

The Council will conduct a 21-day public consultation on these proposals, with further details to be advertised in the press, via the Council’s social media and on their website.

Cllr Victor Abbott said: “We want your views so please do have your say on our public consultation once it is live in the coming weeks.”

For more information and to participate in the consultation, refer to the Council's official communications.