Free two-hour parking will continue at council town car parks in boost to Gedling borough businesses

Gedling Borough Council has announced it will continue offering free two-hour parking in town centres in a bid to support local economy

The two-hour free parking will be available in all of the council’s pay and display car parks in town centres. 

The proposed changes, outlined in a report published today, include adjustments to the charging tariff for parking beyond two hours which will see the long stay charges increase from £1 to £2 for 4 hours, the first increase in 10 years. However, the provision of two hours of free parking will remain unchanged.

Gedling Borough Council said it is one of only a few councils to continue offering free parking in its town centres. It is also investing in several electric car park charging stations at various car parks and new cycle hubs at key sites as part of its commitment to reduce CO2 emissions. The proposed increase in charging also aligns with the council’s broader environmental sustainability goals, encouraging active travel and public transport use.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke MBE said: “We recognise the importance of free parking in our town centres, particularly for our local businesses and residents. Our proposal ensures that visitors have access to two hours of free parking while also generating necessary income to support essential services.

“We know how vital it is for businesses and residents to have free parking in our town centres and while we will continue to provide this essential service, we are also encouraging more people to shop locally, use public transport and reduce their carbon emissions, which is why we are also investing in electric vehicles charging points in several car parks in the borough.”