Dudley's new reduced parking charges came into force today – days after the Express & Star revealed the extent of the town's deserted car parks.
The new reduced parking charges, announced by the council in July, came into force today (Thursday).
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Visitors will now pay 50p for half an hour, £1 for one hour and £2 for two hours.
The move has been welcomed the manager of the Churchill Shopping Centre in Dudley town centre, who recently labelled it a ‘strong show of support’ for town centre businesses.
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said: “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to introduce new lower car park fees for our towns thanks to our improved financial position and we’ll continue to review the charges as our finances continue to improve.
“Traders have shown real resilience, and we’re grateful for their patience. With the new 50p charge now in place, people can pop into town more affordably, and reduced one- and two-hour tariffs make longer visits easier too.  This is a practical step that supports local businesses and encourages footfall – it’s good for the community and good for the local economy.”
Rob Ellis asset manager to the Churchill Shopping Centre in Dudley, said: “We’re delighted to see the council take this positive step to make town centre parking more accessible and affordable.
“The new lower tariffs, especially the 50p short-stay option, are a welcome move that will encourage more people to visit and shop locally.
“For our shoppers at Churchill Shopping Centre, this means even greater convenience and better value, allowing them to pop in for a quick purchase or stay longer without worrying about high parking costs.
“It’s a real boost for the local economy and a strong show of support for town centre businesses.”
Until October last year, visitors were able to take advantage of two hours’ free parking.
Councillor Harley said the authority was forced to introduce the charges due to challenging financial pressures. He said since then, there had been a 293 per cent increase in income, equating to £1.2million.
But the Express & Star published pictures taken on Saturday afternoon, showing just a handful of cars and hundreds of empty spaces.
The charges were previously between £1.20 and £1.80 for one hour, £2.50 for two hours, £3 for three hours, £4 for four hours (short stay car parks only) and £6 all day (long stay only).
From October 23 on short stay car parks three hours will remain at £3, and four hours increase from £4 to £5. These tariffs will be removed from long stay car parks, with an all day fee of £6 retained.
https://www.dudley.gov.uk/residents/parking-and-roads/parking-in-dudley/prices-for-our-car-parks/

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