Free parking in Peterborough set to begin on Monday

Four council run Peterborough city centre car parks will be taking part in the scheme, which will see visitors able to park for free after 3pm on weekdays.

Bishops Road, Car Haven, Riverside and Pleasure Fair Meadow car parks will all be covered by the scheme, between Monday to Friday, as part of a time-limited trial.

The scheme is part of a joint agreement with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and Peterborough City Council, in a bid to increase footfall in the city.

Concerns have been raised about the impact it could have on bus travel – but it is hoped the trial will have a positive impact on the evening economy in the city centre.

A total of £891,667 of the Mayor’s budget has been set aside for free parking will enable the scheme to run until the end of March 2028.

Paul Bristow said: "Free parking is happening this summer, and it's part of my work to regenerate and revive our city centre.

"The city centre needs a lift, and increased footfall, a busier high street and more people choosing to come into the city for an evening out will be great for local businesses and great for the local economy.

"Peterborough has a lot of potential, and free parking is one step towards getting our city thriving."

Councillor Shabina Qayyum, Leader of Peterborough City Council, said: "Peterborough city centre has so much to offer in terms of shopping, places to eat and drink, visitor attractions such as our fantastic Cathedral, Museum, Key Theatre, and Lido. This free parking offer should encourage more people to see what our city has to offer.

"At the Cabinet meeting where members approved acceptance of this funding concerns were raised about the impact of this scheme on people using more environmentally friendly forms of transport and assurance was given that investment will continue in schemes which promote active travel."