Bedford Borough Council has announced an extension of its free parking initiative to help drivers dealing with the cost of motoring crisis.
The parking measure which began at the start of October will now last until January 31, 2025, allowing visitors to enjoy four hours of free parking, which will now include Lurke Street multi-storey car park.
This expansion follows a positive trial at Allhallows Car Park, which began in August 2023 and saw a significant increase in car park usage, with over 40,000 more vehicles using the facility compared to the same period in previous years.
The decision to extend the scheme comes as part of the council's efforts to encourage more visitors to shops, markets, events, and cultural attractions in Bedford town centre. It also aims to support local businesses and boost the area's economy.
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The free parking scheme saw 40,000 more vehicles use the city centre in one month
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The trial's success was evident in the data presented by Matthew D'Archambaud, Chief Officer of Transport, Highways, and Engineering.
He found that in February 2024, an additional 15,080 vehicles used the multi-storey car parks compared to February 2023, indicating sustained interest in the scheme.
Local stakeholders, including the Business Improvement District and local businesses, provided overwhelmingly positive feedback. Importantly, the increased car park usage did not negatively impact public transport usage or air quality.
Based on the results, the council has now recommended continuing four hours of free parking at Allhallows Car Park.
Councillor Andrea Spice said: "The results of the initiative at Allhallows have been very encouraging and affirm our commitment to encouraging people to visit Bedford town centre.
“The increased footfall and positive feedback from businesses and visitors show how important initiatives like this are for supporting our local economy."
The council said it remains committed to monitoring the impact of the free parking initiative on Bedford town centre's travel patterns and air quality. This ongoing assessment aims to ensure the scheme's long-term sustainability.
Councillor Jim Weir added: "By extending this initiative, we hope people will use it as an opportunity to visit Bedford. Whether it's a walk down the Embankment, a visit to our great independent shops, heading to The Higgins Bedford to see the latest exhibition or a chance to catch up with friends and family over a meal, four hours should allow you time to explore."
Alongside the parking initiative, Bedford Borough Council is implementing other measures to improve town centre accessibility.
These include £2 bus fares and secure cycle shelters, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to urban mobility.
The extension of overnight free parking until 8.30am at both Allhallows and Lurke Street car parks further supports the council's strategy to boost town centre visits.
As the initiative progresses, the council will continue to gather data and evaluate its effects. This approach will help inform future decisions about the continuation and potential expansion of free parking in Bedford town centre.
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Drivers also benefit from overnight free parking until 8:30am
GETTYWeir commented: "We hope this trial will help local Bedford businesses as people can take their time to visit the local shops.
"It is brilliant news for Bedford - a true boost for our town. With this fantastic offer, everyone can easily pop in for a haircut, enjoy a coffee, or visit our library and museums hassle-free."
