Parking in Thanet

In December 2023 we announced plans to create a new parking strategy for Thanet. One that sets out the future of parking requirements for the whole of the district, balancing residents’ needs with growing visitor numbers.

As part of this, specialist highway and transportation consultants were appointed to prepare a strategic review of parking across the district.

The consultants analysed parking data and an engagement exercise followed. This was to gather feedback from members of the public.

A number of engagement events were held during the development phase of the strategy. The sessions were a mix of virtual and in-person meetings, with some open to the general public. Targeted stakeholder sessions were also held, involving local businesses and Councillors.

Phase one included surveys for residents and businesses. It was open until Sunday 10 March 2024.

The Phase two survey ran from Monday 15 July to Sunday 1 September 2024.

We are now asking for feedback on the draft Residential Parking Policy. The survey will be open from Friday 21 November to Friday 19 December 2025.

Phases

Phases overview

Phase 1: Preparing to review Thanet's parking strategy

Preparing to review Thanet's parking strategy

Phase 2: Parking Strategy: Stage One

Parking Strategy: Stage One

Phase 3: Development phase

Development phase

Phase 4: Parking Strategy Phase two consultation

Parking Strategy Phase two consultation

Phase 5: Further development phase

Further development phase

Phase 6: Public consultation: draft Residential Parking Policy

Public consultation: draft Residential Parking Policy

Phase 7: Reviewing the feedback received

Reviewing the feedback received

Public consultation: draft Residential Parking Policy

8 December 2025 00:00 - 13 January 2026 00:00

The draft Residential Parking Policy covers the rules and information that we will consider when people ask for parking restrictions to be added, changed, or taken away. It covers the whole of the Thanet District.

We are developing the policy to make sure there is a clear and consistent way to introduce, change, or remove parking restrictions in Thanet’s residential areas. This is to make sure that all decisions about managing on-street parking are fair, based on evidence, and support both what the community needs and the council's wider goals.

People living and working in Thanet are invited to share their feedback on two key proposals. The survey is open until Monday 12 January 2026.

The policy includes a proposed timeline for implementing changes, though this is dependent on the statutory process.

Link to draft policy