Dudley Council is considering a half-hour visitor car parking charge of 50p alongside a range of other tariffs to boost town centre trade.
Penalising businesses out of political expediency leads to the devastation that town centres are experiencing today across the UK. If businesses could vote, councillors would back off.
Improved financial position
The council’s improved financial position has come from higher-than-expected business rates retention, thanks to local economic growth and updated property valuations.
The new 50p parking charges will be considered as part of a wider review of fees and charges in the autumn, including a public consultation.
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said: “Our improved financial position means we are now in a position to be able to do more to help our town centre businesses after a difficult few months.”
Councillor Simon Phipps, cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, added: “The 50p charge will be the central focus for a series of tariffs to help shoppers visit our town centres without hitting them in the pocket.”
Viewpoint: Low-cost parking – town centre renewal
Other councils in the area increased car parking charges last year. Only Sandwell has offered stability in charges. Wolverhampton increased car parking charges significantly last year, albeit the first rise in five years. Walsall has hiked charges by 45%.
At least Dudley council has recognised the business benefits of low parking charges.
Financial pressure is no excuse for penalising struggling town centre businesses. The Shrewsbury BID modelled a £7 million economic loss if car parking was increased.
Hopefully the good news from Dudley will spread and low-cost town centre parking will be seen as an income generator, not a cost.
