Tameside MP tells council to introduce free town centre car parking

TAMESIDE Council has been told by an MP to introduce free car parking for three hours in town centres.

A review of price changes seen as disastrous is being conducted as traders complain about rates putting people off.

And Stalybridge and Hyde MP Jonathan Reynolds, the country’s Business Secretary, has told the authority to encourage customers with the payless period.

He also feels that, along with better enforcement and a ‘reasonable’ contract parking rate, can help regenerate towns.

In a letter to Tameside Council, he wrote: “Taking into account the approach taken elsewhere, it would be beneficial to have an initial free parking period of three hours in town centre car parks.

Jonathan Reynolds MP. Image by GGC Media

“This would be an initial hit for the council. However, with tough enforcement and a reasonable contract parking rate for businesses, employees and those living in town centres, alongside the helpful increase in business rates, we could actually see revenue for the council increase as our town centres regenerate.”

Tameside Council changed its parking rates in September 2023, with the cost of three hours in some rising from £1 to £3.50.

That move has been almost unanimously seen as a disaster, with traders reporting a significant decrease in footfall.

Mr Reynolds added: “I have received many emails from residents, businesses and GP practices who were unhappy with the changes to the charging structure.”

However, the authority is now looking into rolling back the controversial alterations.

Cllr Stephen Homer, Tameside Council’s executive member for towns, transport and connectivity, told colleagues: “While it may be a discretionary service, I’m sure you’ll agree, it is a very important service.

Old Cross Street Car Park, Ashton-under-Lyne

“Not least for our residents to be able to access vital services and to support our town centre businesses with footfall.

“There are also important links to wider transport connectivity, the environment and housing for town centre living.

“It is important to remember that the council service sits within a wider parking model that also includes retail and commercial car parks.

“Working together they can provide a comprehensive offer that meets the needs of various different users and purposes.

“With our town centre redevelopment plans moving forward at pace it feels like the right time to review the current offer and ensure it is fit for purpose.

“Just to re-iterate, that purpose being to support our residents and our town centres.”

Mr Reynolds also believes changes should be brought in at other car parks that lie outside town centres but in key locations.

He told the council: “For those car parks outside of our town centres, such as the Stamford Park car park adjacent to Tameside Hospital, a reasonable hourly rate to attract people to the park and maybe contract passes for doctors and nurses at the hospital.”