Free parking is over for shoppers in South Ribble

On March 25 the council decided to suspend charging at all authority-run car parks following the introduction of lockdown.

But from June 15 the council is to return to charging as usual to coincide with the reopening of non-essential shops

Coun Sue Jones, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “We were delighted to be able to offer free parking for the last 11 weeks, so that people who needed it most, such as key workers, could park easily, without hassle, completely for free.

“But as non-essential shops start to reopen, we will see car park use increase and this means additional expenses for the council regarding maintenance, staffing, security and resources.

“The parking fees currently in place are modest, and of course for short trips, the blue bays are free for one hour. It has always been in the council’s best interests to keep car parking charges as low as possible to ensure good footfall to the towns’ shops and businesses.

“It is necessary to reintroduce these charges though so that we can continue to provide good car parking facilities and cover our costs of staffing and maintaining them.”

Council chiefs are asking motorists using the car parks to use contactless payment wherever possible.

Council leader Coun Paul Foster said: “We have been helping businesses in South Ribble to prepare to reopen from Monday. Customer safety must be the priority – and social distancing should be adhered to at all times.

“Frequent hand washing, and wearing a face covering, are both very much advised at this stage.Nevertheless, whilst we must stay safe and stay alert, this is also an opportunity for the South Ribble economy to bounce back.

“The recovery won’t happen overnight – but I know that many businesses owners are just happy to be open again. I want to wish them good luck and reassure them that the council remains by their side throughout this process and beyond.

“Please do send us an email on [email protected] if you have any business support queries or questions.”