Over 60,000 free tickets have been issued in the first month of a trial set up by Erewash Borough Council to introduce free parking to busy car parks.
The council’s scheme for one hour free parking in its town centre car parks has proved a major success this month in a bid to boost town centre regeneration.
Free parking was introduced in some of the busiest car parks in Long Eaton and Ilkeston in January as part of a six month trial to encourage people to shop locally.
Councillor Barbara Harrison, Erewash Borough Council’s lead member for environment, says:
We are delighted it has been so well received as we see this scheme as a positive move to boost our town centres.
Councillor Barbara Harrison
“The feedback we have received so far indicates that people find the one hour free parking a big help, with many pointing out that the town centre car parks are busier than ever.
“The key to its success, however, is that it encourages more residents to show their support for their town and to shop locally.”
Running until June 28, the council is monitoring the scheme’s success during the trial and has commissioned an independent market researcher to find out more about the views of residents.
The council will also be carrying out a survey of retailers in the town centre to see if the free parking has impacted on their business.
Free one hour parking is available in Ilkeston at:
East Street, Baker Street, Chapel Street, Pimlico, Station Road, Wilton Place, Albion Centre, Albion Centre extension, Club Row, Queen Street and South Street.
Free one hour parking is available in Long Eaton at:
Claye Street, Gibb Street, Beaconsfield Street, Lawrence Street and the lower Town Hall.
Shoppers are still required to get a ticket from the pay and display machines which will give the expiry time and this must be clearly displayed in the vehicle.
