SOMERSET County Council is proposing to make changes to parking arrangements for residents in the harbour area of Minehead.

They are aimed at giving residents priority parking areas, removing competition between tourists and residents for parking spaces, and improving safety in the area.

They would also see an increase in permit charges to bring them in line with the rest of the county.

Residents on Quay Street and Quay West are being sent a letter which gives information on the proposals and a feedback form to have their say on the new arrangements.

Depending on the level of response to that, the new parking scheme could be in place at the start of the summer season.

The countywide consultation conducted last year led to the cost of permits being increased elsewhere in the county.

It was agreed that no increase would take place in Minehead until a review of parking in Quay Street and Quay West was undertaken and new parking arrangements proposed.

The increase in permit charges will be phased in over three years.