'Smooth' changeover of Shrewsbury parking fees

New machines were switched on this week, bringing new fees into force as part of the council's new parking strategy.

The move was criticised in particular for affecting workers who need to park all day, but it means shoppers wanting to stay for less than five hours in Frankwell or Abbey Foregate will pay less than before.

At St Julian’s Friars it is now cheaper to park for two hours or less than under the previous charges.

The new machines also offer motorists a choice of payment options.

Steve Davenport, Cabinet member for highways and transport, said the changes had been largely well-received in their first few days.

“The introduction of the new parking charges in Shrewsbury on Monday has gone very smoothly so far," he said.

“The new parking arrangements offer a wide range of benefits to users of our car parks, and a number of improvements on the previous arrangements, including parking charges that are easier to understand, a variety of free and cheap parking – together with a wider range of payment methods.

See also:

• New Shrewsbury parking charges get a mixed reaction

“The new options – such as discounted weekly tickets – are being well received, and the number of customers paying by card and using the MiPermit app continues to grow."

Under the changes, there is no more short-stay parking in the town centre, except Frankwell Riverside car park. There is free parking on Sundays and bank holidays in Frankwell and Abbey Foregate car parks as well as a free parking after 6pm, excluding Raven Meadows multi-storey, and free parking after eight hours in Frankwell Main, Frankwell Quay and Abbey Foregate car parks.

Councillor Davenport added: “We’re confident that the changes will help to bring about a change in people’s travel behaviour as they consider which car park, or other travel option, is best for them.

"This will lead to increased availability of parking spaces within the river loop, including an uptake in the use of Park and Ride.”