Free parking in Buckinghamshire when the High Street re-opens
Bucks Council are suspending charges for a month
Last updated 6th Apr 2021
To help Buckinghamshire's high streets recover, parking charges are being suspended.
The Council say their car parks will be free for a month from Monday (12/4).
That is when non-essential retail can open back up.
Bucks Council previously suspended parking charges during the first lockdown in March 2020, but they have been in place since the summer.
Lifting charges is all part of the Council's plans to aid recovery from the pandemic.
Their report on the decision says:
"To support the local economy, the Council has a major campaign planned for the re-opening of high streets in Buckinghamshire.
"This includes supporting businesses in practical ways like business grants and offering streamlining applications for pavement licencing to help extend outdoor trading.
"In addition, funding has been secured to help create a feel good factor around town and village centres with bright and cheery ‘Welcome Back!’ signage, as well as street bunting in town centre locations to add to the celebratory feel of Buckinghamshire. Town Centre ‘tidy ups’ and street events/entertainment will also be taking place."
Free parking, until 11th May, is also a part of this.
On-street parking will still need to be paid for, though.
It's predicted the move will cost the authority £749k.
What else is happening with easing lockdown?
12th April: shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions and outdoor hospitality venues
From 12th April at the earliest, shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions, including zoos, and outdoor hospitality venues will be permitted to reopen.
12th April: Beer gardens reopen
From 12th April, outdoor beer gardens will also be allowed to reopen.
12th April: Gyms reopen
Gyms are expected to reopen from 12th April.
17th May: Indoor mixing
From 17th May at earliest, two households or groups of up to six people can mix indoors and limited crowds will be allowed to return to sporting events. Children's play areas will be opened alongside hotels, and limited groups will be allowed in theatres.
17th May: Possible foreign travel
Foreign travel may be permitted from 17th May.
17th May: Indoor hospitality
Indoor hospitality including pubs and restaurants could reopen from 17th May.
21st June: Nightclubs could reopen
From 21st June all remaining restrictions on social distancing could be lifted, and larger events may be allowed to resume, including theatres. Nightclubs may also be allowed to reopen.
21st June: Bigger weddings
Bigger wedding celebrations may be permitted from 21st June.