Drivers across Somerset have been stung with more than £1.6 million in parking fines — with new figures revealing exactly where motorists are most likely to get caught out.

A report by National Scrap Car shows Somerset Council handed out a whopping 56,966 fines last year — making it one of the worst councils in the country for dishing out penalties.

And while that might not touch the eye-watering £14.6 million collected by Manchester City Council, it's still left a dent in the pockets of thousands of local drivers.

Bridgwater Road in Taunton topped the county's list of worst places to park, with 4,008 fines issued in 2024. Taunton High Street followed with 2,261 fines, and the town's Canon Street Car Park clocked up 1,059 fines.

But the crackdown didn't stop there.

In Glastonbury, St Johns Car Park saw 480 fines issued — closely followed by the High Street with 460, and Butt Close Car Park with 332.

In Street, Grange 1 Car Park caught out 632 drivers, Northside Car Park issued 553 fines, and Southside Car Park saw 525 penalties handed out.

Wells wasn't far behind — with Union Street Car Park racking up 562 fines, High Street handing out 559, and Sadler Street 355.

advertisement

Meanwhile, in Shepton Mallet, drivers were stung on the High Street with 280 fines, Great Ostry Car Park with 270, and Regal Road Car Park with 129.

Most fines across Somerset are estimated to be £40 if paid within 14 days — meaning the council brought in £1,653,680 from drivers parking in the wrong spot.

Dorry Potter, vehicle expert at National Scrap Car, said: "For many councils, the money gained from parking fines is essential to funding local services like transport infrastructure, road maintenance and public services.

"So, unlike fines for parking on privately owned land, motorists can take some solace in the fines they pay to their councils being reinvested back into their community.

"That being said, we hope drivers will take note of our findings and use them to inform more careful parking decisions to avoid unnecessary fines."

Somerset Council says the fines are part of wider efforts to manage traffic and keep town centres moving — but with strict enforcement in some of the county's busiest spots, motorists are being warned to check the signs before leaving their car.