The Conservatives have voted to retain free parking in all Council-owned car parks across South Glos.
One of the measures contained in South Gloucestershire Council’s budget for 2023/24, which was agreed by councillors last week, was for parking in all Council car parks to remain free.
The retention of free parking is a long-standing commitment by the Conservative Group in order to support local businesses and high streets.
Cllr Ben Stokes, Conservative Deputy Leader of South Glos Council, said: “South Gloucestershire is one of the few places in the country where you can park your car for free at all times, and I’m proud that we have been able to keep this in place for another year.
“High streets have been struggling in recent years due to the changes in consumer behaviour. But by ensuring it remains free to park in all Council car parks, we are doing our bit to ensure local businesses are able to thrive.”
The Conservative Group’s budget for 2023/24 delivers on its key priorities for South Glos, which include giving children the best start in life, supporting vulnerable people, boosting economic growth and giving council taxpayers value for money.
As well as the retention of free parking, more money has been put aside to fix potholes and to keep bus services going temporarily following the WECA Mayor’s recent cuts.
The £30 charge for collecting garden waste has been frozen, Street Care teams have been protected, support for veterans’ services will continue and significant levels of investment in schools and community facilities will be made available.