Parking costs halved in town centre for shoppers

The changes will come into full effect on 23 October

Parking in Dudley town centre is set to become cheaper later this month after councillors approved new short-stay tariffs.

From 23 October, drivers will be able to park for 30 minutes for 50p. One-hour stays will be cut to £1, and two hours will cost £2.

Council leader Patrick Harley said the changes were designed to make town centres more accessible and support traders who have faced "a difficult few months."

"Our improved financial position means we can do more to help local businesses," he said. "The new 50p charge will allow people to pop in for quick visits, while cheaper one and two-hour tariffs make longer stays more attractive," he said.

"It's good for residents, good for business and good for the local economy."

The move has been welcomed by retailers like Rob Ellis, director at LCP UK, which manages the Churchill Shopping Centre in Dudley.

'Boost the economy'

He described the changes as a "strong show of support" for businesses.

"The new lower tariffs, especially the 50p short-stay option, are a welcome move that will encourage more people to shop locally," he said.

"It's a real boost for the local economy."

Earlier this year, the council scrapped free parking amid budget pressures, a decision that generated £1.2m in extra income – a rise of 293%.

Current charges range from £1.20–£1.80 for one hour, £2.50 for two hours, £3 for three hours, and £4 for four hours. All-day parking costs £6 in long-stay car parks.

Under the new system, three-hour stays in short-stay car parks will remain at £3, while four hours will rise from £4 to £5.

Long-stay sites will no longer offer three or four-hour options, with the all-day £6 charge retained.

The council said the new pricing structure strikes a balance between generating revenue and encouraging more visitors to the town centre.