In March 2020, we introduced temporary parking permits to allow free parking for NHS staff and critical care workers to attend emergency situations and carry out other vital roles to support Torbay's vulnerable residents during the pandemic.​​

As we enter a new phase in the government roadmap and as part of guidance from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), we have now been advised to end arrangements for temporary parking permits. From Monday, 21 June 2021, we will no longer accept the following temporary car parking permits linked to the COVID-19 emergency response:

• official government NHS permit,
• agreed organisation ID,
• agreed permits for volunteers,
• arrangements for specific parking areas,
• or any other arrangements

at any of our car parks, for parking on-street in resident only spaces, for limited waiting spaces or for on-street 'pay & display' spaces.

We will continue to offer support via the Healthcare and Emergency Badge (HEB) scheme to organisations that provide care and support for those living in their own homes. This permit allows for extra parking in limited waiting areas and on double yellow lines provided, where there is no available non-restricted parking nearby. Find out more and apply for a Healthcare and Emergency Badge.

Government advice

In the most recent Local Authority Parking and Traffic Management Operation Advice:  COVID-19 (Lockdown Exit Roadmap) Version 14 – 16 April 2021, there is the following extract:

‘The COVID-19 parking pass based on an agreement between the LGA and Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MJCLG) – provided evidence of entitlement to free parking for those on duty as an NHS staff member, health or social care worker or NHS volunteer responder.  The paper passes were originally intended for temporary use during the COVID-19 emergency response period which has proven to be longer than anticipated.

The publication of the Governments roadmap for the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions presents an opportunity to begin the phased withdrawal of the COVID-19 parking pass.

The anticipated increase in mobility as restrictions are eased is expected to result in an increase in demand for parking at many locations.  This is likely to mean that it is not sustainable for many local authorities to continue to allow unregulated free parking to continue.

Councils who are still accepting the paper passes may wish to consider planning for a phased withdrawal between now and the final step of the roadmap which will not be before 21 June 2021.'