The new flat rate of £1 for Sunday parking in Shrewsbury town centre’s public and private car parks starts today with high hopes it will boost visitor numbers and the local economy.

Shrewsbury BID believes the simpler, cheaper tariff will prove a winner and encourage more people to come to town. It also coincides with the start of the summer season when Shrewsbury’s diverse shopping, leisure and hospitality businesses prepare to welcome an influx of tourists and visitors.

Kirsten Henly, Shrewsbury BID Manager, said: “Shrewsbury is a special place with so much to offer all ages and tastes and we are keen to promote its attractions. We are confident the £1 parking deal will prove another great reason to spend time here and add to the weekend buzz.”

The new tariff of £1 to park all day in long stay car parks and £1 for maximum stay in other short stay car parks applies to all Shropshire Council and privately owned car parks in Shrewsbury on Sundays. It is being introduced following the success of pilot schemes.

The long stay car parks include Abbey Foregate, Raven Meadows Multi Storey, St Julian’s Friars, Frankwell Main and The Gap, in addition to the NCP £1 all day Sunday parking offer already in place on Wyle Cop.

£1 parking will be available at the following short stay car parks for their maximum stay periods: Frankwell Riverside and Quay short stay car parks – up to 3 hours, the Tannery, St Austin’s Street, Bridge Street and Barker Street car parks – up to 2 hours.

Councillor Simon Jones, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at Shropshire Council said: “This Sunday represents the start of our long term plan for straight forward and more affordable parking options. Our aim is to extend the visiting time for those who want to come into the town centre on Sundays and further improve town centre trading.”