Bristol scraps workplace levy plan

Proposals to introduce a workplace parking levy on businesses in Bristol have been scrapped. Bristol City Council had calculated that the levy would raise £27m to help fund the bus rapid transit (BRT) projects.

The city council is planning to contribute £42m towards BRT projects. The cabinet has already pledged £15m towards the cost, including £10m as part of its Invest in Bristol package, leaving an outstanding £27m from an alternative funding stream.

Tim Kent, cabinet member for transport, said: “Business rate retention is now a more realistic option as a funding stream. There is a strong consensus among our partners in the Local Enterprise Partnership – both business and neighbouring councils – that we should actively explore this option.

“We need to work quickly and effectively to come up with a solution for Bristol’s remaining contributions as the final piece of the funding jigsaw.”

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