Newquay Town Council announces parking changes at South Fistral

Free Parking Is Coming to Newquay, But There’s a Catch

Drivers heading to South Fistral will soon be able to park for free, but only at certain times of year, under changes announced by Newquay Town Council.

From 1st June 2026, the council will introduce free parking at South Fistral Car Park during the winter period, running from 1st November through to 31st March. The move is aimed at better supporting local residents and encouraging year-round use of the facility.

What is changing?

Alongside the new free winter parking offer, the council is also making small increases to the seasonal tariffs that apply between 1st April and 31st October each year.

Despite those rises, the council says charges will remain roughly 10% lower than those at Cornwall Council car parks, meaning South Fistral will continue to offer a cheaper option for visitors and locals alike.

The new summer rates

From 1st June 2026, the daytime rates between 09:00 and 16:00 will be:

• Up to 1 hour: £1.20
• 1 to 2 hours: £2.30
• 2 to 4 hours: £5.00
• 24 hours: £6.40

Parking between 16:00 and 09:00 will remain free of charge during the summer season.

For those needing longer stays, weekly permits will be priced at £15.70, with monthly permits at £59.50. Three month permits will cost £281.00 and six month permits £318.50.

📷Credit: Newquay Town Council

How does that compare to now?

The current daytime rates are slightly lower across the board. At present, up to one hour costs £1.00, a full 24 hours is £6.30, and a weekly permit is £50.75. Annual permits currently start at £337.50 for a first permit, rising to £450.00 for second and subsequent permits per household or business.

The legal process

A statutory Notice of Variation under Section 35C of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 has now been published, setting out the full details of the changes. Any enquiries can be directed to the council at [email protected].

The new charges come into effect on 1st June 2026.

📷Credit: Newquay Town Council