Parking charges to be lifted in Ironbridge Gorge to support businesses
Parking on Telford & Wrekin Council’s five main car parks that serve the Ironbridge Gorge will be free from Monday for the next few weeks to encourage more visitors on the run up to Christmas.
The temporary suspension has been introduced as a measure to support high streets businesses in the area facing a challenging time.
Two flooding events in quick succession, just as the Christmas shopping period begins has meant a loss in trade.
Councillor Carolyn Healy, (Lab) Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning & Sustainability said: “Businesses across the Gorge and down into Jackfield are being repeatedly affected by not only flood water from the river but also surface water flooding. If traders are not affected directly, the impacts are far reaching stopping supplies or customers getting to them.
“Suspending car park charges is a small but important step. It’s vital that we support businesses however we can.”
From Monday, December 16 up to and including Boxing Day, five main car parks offering 250 spaces will have charges temporarily suspended including The Square, The Wharfage, Waterloo Street, Central and Dale End.
Councillor Ollie Vickers, (Lab) Cabinet Member for the Economy said: “Flooding can be devastating for small businesses which are integral to so many people’s lives in the Ironbridge Gorge which is why we always encourage people to visit especially when the flood barriers go up.
"The barriers themselves can make getting around the Ironbridge more difficult and this year footfall has reduced. We hope this small action will bring shoppers back to Ironbridge and give business a boost.”
