Parking rules for new housing, flats and developments in Bracknell are set to be overhauled for the first time in a decade.
When new developments are submitted to Bracknell Forest Council, the planning applicants responsible are expected to follow standards for the amount of car parking spaces provided.
These standards apply to plans for new homes, flats, shops and businesses.
The rules are defined in the council’s parking standards supplementary planning document (SPD).
The council is in the process of reforming these rules, as the current standards set in 2016 will be 10 years old.
A proposal in the new SPD includes giving developers greater flexibility to provide less parking for developments within an 800-metre walk away from the train station and the bus station.
Additionally, the document radically encourages all new homes with designated parking to have electric vehicle (EV) charging points.
The SPD also reflect changes in planning rules, such as the changes to use classes for buildings, the introduction of standards for homes of multiple occupation (HMOs) and suitable numbers of spaces to park bikes.
The proposed new parking standards SPD was presented at a meeting of Bracknell Forest Council’s cabinet.
The policies within it will be subject to a public consultation.
Councillor Guy Gillbe (Labour, Easthampstead & Wildridings), cabinet member for planning and transport, said: “By setting clear expectations for developers, including where flexibility is acceptable and where it is not, we reduce ambiguity, reduce conflict, and reduce the risk of poor outcomes that lead to parking overspill and pressure on existing communities.”
The council is required to formulate a new parking policy as the 2016 standards are out of date, which has given it the opportunity to explore more flexible rules for developments in areas with good public transport links.
Cllr Helen Purnell (Labour, Easthampstead & Wildridings), the deputy leader and cabinet member for community and housing, said: “The update is essential because our current 2016 standards no longer reflect modern needs. But this isn’t just about parking. It’s about community.
“The document directly supports the community strategy, which aims to build connected, inclusive, and healthy neighbourhoods by reducing street congestion, improving access to all families and older residents and those with mobility needs.
“We create safer, safer, more welcoming spaces. And of course, cycle and EV provisions promote active lifestyles and cleaner air, helping us deliver a healthy, sustainable borough.”
She then stressed that the parking standards SPD is subject to public consultation, allowing the council to make changes following feedback.
The council’s Labour cabinet agreed to begin a public consultation into the SPD at its meeting on Tuesday, December 16.
The four-week consultation is set to begin on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 and end on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
