FREE weekend parking is being brought in at council-owned car parks across Essex towns, with shoppers welcoming the changes. Basildon Borough Council has announced the changes to its car parks, including those across Basildon, Billericay and Wickford reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
Cllr Andy Barnes the new Conservative leader of the council, has encouraged residents to support local businesses. He also says that it’ll “take a few weeks to sort out the signs.”
He added: “We are supporting local businesses and residents with free parking at weekends across all council-owned car parks. This gives residents the opportunity to support their local retailers and the hospitality sector.”
It comes after the previous Labour administration, which ran the council, introduced new parking charges across the borough last year. It sparked fury and concerns, with the Tory Basildon MP Richard Holden and businesses strongly criticising the council over the new parking costs.
Residents have welcomed the free parking. Kerry Baxter, 55, said: “I think it’s a wonderful idea. I’ve spoken to a few people who are very happy about it, it’s really created quite a buzz around the area. I think it will help businesses and I also hope it helps people to shop local and support our businesses. It can only be a great thing.”
Fellow Basildon resident Christine Tilley, 59, has high praise for the council after the free parking was announced. She said: “This is just what the council should be doing. I also think it will give people more of a reason to shop here. It’s got to be a win win and very positive thing.”
The new free parking at weekends applies to the Westgate Shopping Park in Basildon, Billericay High Street Car Park and other council owned car parks.
