Exciting Plans to Revitalize Yarm and Stockton Town Centres with Free Parking!

In a promising move for local economies, Stockton Council is proposing the reintroduction of an hour of free short-stay parking in Yarm and Stockton town centres. This initiative follows a comprehensive review of parking charges that indicated the previous removal of the free hour had resulted in notable declines in ticket sales and footfall.

A Response to Community Feedback

Amid growing concerns from residents and businesses regarding the impact of parking charges, the council's cabinet is set to discuss these proposals. The review revealed that footfall in Yarm and Stockton had notably decreased since the first hour of free parking was replaced with a charge. An impressive 93% of respondents to a recent consultation felt that the removal harmed town centre accessibility and shopping experiences.

Boosting Local Business and Economic Growth

Councillor Paul Rowling emphasized the importance of making town centres accessible for all, particularly during the crucial holiday shopping period. The council aims to encourage more visitors, benefiting local businesses which have been struggling in recent times. The reinstatement of free parking is expected to remove barriers for short visits, making it easier for residents to shop locally.

Community Support and Collaboration

Local councillors have hailed this proposal as a victory resulting from sensible cross-party discussions, highlighting the positive impact of community engagement. Councillor Andrew Sherris noted the significance of the council's willingness to listen to concerns, marking a commendable shift towards collaborative governance.

As the council moves forward with these plans, it aims to strike a balance between financial sustainability and community needs, especially during the festive season. The support for the reintroduction of free parking until January 31 demonstrates a commitment to fostering a thriving commercial environment in both Yarm and Stockton.