The scheme is good news for businesses and residents
The festive spirit is in force in Merton after the council pledged free parking at weekends over the Christmas period.
Parking will be free at council-managed car parks for the four weekends leading up to Christmas including Monday 23, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day itself.
The pay and display machines being turned off on weekends from November 30 means good news for Christmas shoppers and business owners in Merton.
Wimbledon business owner, Gina Conway, said: “This is great news for shoppers, which means it’s great news for businesses too. Free parking will encourage more people to shop in Merton, which has got to be good news for the local economy.”
There are four 24-hour council-managed car parks in Wimbledon, with prices ranging from 50p to 75p for every 30 minutes up to four hours from Monday to Saturday.
“We want to give the gift of free parking so that our residents have one less thing to worry about when they’re getting gifts for their family,” said leader of Merton Council, Stephen Alambritis.
“This was very popular last year, saving you money while also helping our local shops and businesses.”
According to Parkopedia, there are 33 car parks in Merton, 14 of which are council-managed.
The council receives just under £1.5million each year from car park pay and display machines in the borough, and between the years of 2009 and 2012 they raised around £4,345,354.
Chief Executive of Merton Chamber of Commerce, Diana Sterck, said: “We welcome the council’s decision to switch off the pay and display machines for the busiest time of the retail calendar.”
There are five council-managed car parks in Morden with prices from £3.50 to £5.00 for a day’s parking.
Mitcham has four car parks managed by the council. They offer day’s rates from £2.00 to £5.00.
Normal tariffs will apply at Coombe Lane car park in Raynes Park.
Photo courtesy of StockMonkeys.com, with thanks.
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