Blackpool traders welcome parking fee freeze

Parking charges in Blackpool will remain the same this year

Fees for both on-street parking and council car parks will not go up, and there will be scope for reduced charges for specific events or fixed periods of time.

Free parking was introduced by the council on Central Car Park in the run-up to Christmas last year, along with a discounted rate of £1 at other car parks, in response to concerns about the impact of town centre roadworks on trade. Blackpool BID contributed £25,000 towards the free parking scheme.

Currently a stretch of Talbot Road at the junction with Abingdon Street is closed for work in connection with the extension of the tramway.

Michael Williams, chairman of Blackpool BID (business improvement district) said: “It’s good news the council have held car parking prices this year.

“The council and BID are working closely on communication regarding the road works. We have arranged a follow up meeting for BID members.

“Whilst the road works are still ongoing the congestion seems minimal as drivers have found alternative routes thereby avoiding the junctions affected.”

Meanwhile a proposal to extend on-street parking fees to 11 additional streets has been dropped after a feasability study showed it would be too expensive.

Coun Tony Williams (pictured), leader of the Conservatives on Blackpool Council, said he was concerned about the potential for paid parking on more streets.

He said: “It appears the council does want to increase revenue from parking.”