Introduction of Mayor's Free Parking Deal Sees 60% Jump In Visitors to Lurke Street
New figures show the number of people using a town centre car park has risen by a phenomenal 60%, since the Mayor's Free Parking Deal was introduced last month.
The Mayor's Free Parking Deal, which began on Saturday 23rd November, gives shoppers and visitors two hours of parking absolutely free every Saturday in all council-owned town centre car parks.
The figures show the number of people using Lurke Street car park has grown from just over 1,000 on Saturday 16th November to over 1,600 on the 21ST December.
Lib Dem Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: "We're delighted that the Free Parking Deal is already encouraging more people to visit and shop in the town centre. With other town centres struggling during the current financial climate, we are investing in ours to support businesses and shoppers and to help maintain a vibrant and busy town.
"The Free Parking Deal is a part of our commitment to show that Bedford is well and truly open for business"