Two hours free parking in Hucknall from September to help boost businesses

At the latest Cabinet meeting of Ashfield District Council, councillors supported the decision to introduce two hours free parking in all its car parks to help boost town centres and encourage people to shop local.

Coun David Martin, cabinet member for streets, parks and town centres, said: “We put this recommendation forward to help support high street businesses to recover from the impacts of the Covid-19 lockdown, and provide longer-term support to attract people into town centres.

“So many people have been shopping locally during lockdown and are appreciating the benefits of having high quality products available on their doorstep. Two hours free parking will encourage residents to continue to shop local, and continue to visit our town centres on a regular basis.”

Coun Jason Zadrozny, leader of Ashfield District Council, said: “The Ashfield Independents want to encourage the rehabilitation and recovery for our town centres and to support our residents.

“I’ve been to Hucknall, Kirkby and Sutton, and strolled around the town centre speaking to residents and it was universally welcomed and really thanked that we were listening to what people wanted.

“At this moment people are worried about money and, it might not seem a lot, but it’s a statement of our intent that we’re on people’s side and I think it’s entirely the right thing to do at this time.”

Coun John Wilmott, councillor for Hucknall North, said: “This is great news for both residents and businesses in our town centres. Two hours free parking will enable shoppers to buy their goods and still have time to relax and eat at many of our cafes and restaurants.

“And of course it gives a chance for our businesses to earn some much needed income. It has been a hard slog for many of our retailers but the council is trying to help and two hours free parking will show our willingness to try and give our town centres a lift.”

Coun Samantha Deakin, councillor for Central and New Cross, Sutton, said: “I think it’s brilliant news to have two hours free parking.”