Calls to cut parking charges in Blackpool

Councillors were told parking revenue was actually up in July and August in council car parks suggesting charges were not deterring visitors.

Members of the tourism, economy and communities scrutiny committee heard 5,203 more people had used car parks so far this year compared to last year as the resort enjoyed a boost from staycationers.

Coun Gerard Walsh said: “There is reduced footfall at the Houndshill, down by 50 per cent. Will there be any revision on the car parking charges?”

Coun Mark Smith, cabinet member for business, enterprise and job creation, said he would not rule out reviewing charges if it became necessary.

But he added: “Parking fees have been frozen for the last four years and during the early part of lockdown there was no enforcement.

“After the shops re-opened we have reverted to normal tariffs. There is no current plan to reduce fees but we are always reviewing plans if we need to do so.”

He said free parking did not help businesses because spaces tended to fill with workers leaving their cars all day, meaning customers could not find spaces.

Alan Cavill, the council’s director of communication and regeneration, said: “Parking revenue is up for most weeks in July and August.

“There is no immediate evidence that parking charges are stopping people coming to the town centre.”

He added although the council owned the Houndshill Centre, its management controlled the car park and had the powers to operate their own parking offers.