Thousands of UK drivers have been granted 30 minutes of free parking in a significant rule change. Motorists in Gloucestershire can now use any parking space for free for half an hour in council-operated car parks where charges were introduced last year.
New Parking Measures
The adjustment is part of a series of measures designed to simplify the parking scheme and encourage visits to local high streets. The 30-minute free parking applies to all bays, not just those previously marked for short stays. Disabled blue badge holders remain unaffected and can continue to park for free for up to four hours.
Registration Required
All drivers must register their vehicle either at the payment machine or via the app, even if they only plan to stay for the free 30-minute period. Extensions can be made at the machine or through the app, eliminating the need to return to the car park. If drivers extend their stay, the first hour from arrival will be charged at 80 pence under the new tariff, which was approved as part of this year's Council budget in February.
Support for Local Businesses
Expanding the number of free spaces and allowing easy stay extensions were changes particularly welcomed by local traders and businesses. All car parks that previously had separate long and short stay rates and spaces will now move to a simpler, single tariff.
Councillor Sean Rhodes, South Gloucestershire Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Local Place, stated: "We introduced the scheme because as a council we need to balance the books and fund vital services that many people rely on. Implementation has been broadly successful. Residents and visitors have adapted well to using the app, and our car parks with charging are being used effectively."
He added: "We deliberately kept the price as low as possible, much cheaper than many other councils in the region, but we have been listening to local people and businesses, which is why we are making these improvements. We have also been listening to our local traders and high streets and know they face many challenges, common across the country, as shopping habits change. We continue to support our high streets through various schemes and initiatives."
The councillor emphasized the need to balance measures that help keep high streets thriving with the steps required to maintain all council services during financially difficult times. "Crucially, we are generating much-needed revenue for the council, which, as we go through our budget setting process for the coming year, takes some pressure off needing to make cutbacks and protects vital services, including social care support for older residents," he concluded.
