Wrexham Free Parking Scheme To Start

Wrexham Council is due to introduce free parking at two of its town centre car parks as of Monday in a bid to boost trade.

Proposals to introduce the free parking scheme were voted through by the council’s executive board last month meaning that the council owned car parks on Crescent Road and the Peoples Market multi-storey can both be used for free after 12pm every day from Monday 31st October.

Analysis of the council’s car parking occupancy figures had revealed that both the Peoples Market multi storey and Crescent Road car parks were operating under capacity presenting the opportunity to encourage greater usage by offering them for free.

The proposals were put forward as a result of consultation meetings with traders from the Town Centre Forum and Wrexham Chamber of Trade and Tourism following controversial attempts to charge for on street parking earlier in the year.

The estimated loss that the council will incur from lost ticket sales is estimated at between £40,000 and £50,000 however it is hoped that the economic benefits for the town will outweigh the losses. Additionally the losses have been incorporated into the Environmental Departments cash limited budget.

Anyone using these car parks in the afternoon will still be required to obtain a ticket to display which will help record the success of the pilot scheme and ensure that no fines are issued. Standard parking charges will still apply in both car parks before 12.

A report will be made to the executive board on the scheme’s viability within the next 12 months which will most likely decide whether it will continue beyond the trial period.

Cllr David A Bithell, Lead Member for Environment and Transport said:

“Following extensive consultation over the last four months with local businesses, residents and the wider public, the council has taken positive action to help support the town centre through these difficult and challenging times.

“It is hoped these changes are welcomed by local businesses, visitors and shoppers who will all benefit from free parking in the town centre.

“The move is timely as we are now in the run up to Christmas and these changes will provide a much needed boost to the local economy.”