Free parking after 3pm in Conwy’s car parks until January 9

Dec 9 2010 by Mari Jones, North Wales Weekly News

ALL car parks in Conwy county will be free after 3pm from today, in an effort to boost Christmas trade.

Parking will be ticket-free in Conwy Council’s pay and display car parks over Christmas and New Year until January 9.

A council spokeswoman said: “At a meeting of the cabinet on Tuesday it was agreed to waive parking charges after 3pm each day to help encourage shoppers and support local businesses.

“All Conwy’s pay and display car parks will be free except Venue Cymru, Great Orme Summit and coach parks.”

In addition, the cabinet has also agreed a request from Bay of Colwyn Town Council for car parks at Douglas Road, Lansdowne Road and Princes Drive in Colwyn Bay, and Colwyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea to be free of charge all day on Saturdays December 11 and 18.

The town council will reimburse Conwy County Council for loss of income.

Sally Donald, who owns two shops in Conwy, was pleased with the news.

She said: “It has been deathly quiet in Conwy for the last few weeks, so anything like this will help.

“I think the cold has kept people away, and I think people are waiting for the sales in the big stores.

“I’ve heard news reports that the British high street is down year on year by up to 20%, so free parking is very welcome news.”

Conwy town councillor Sara Allardice commented: “I’m very pleased, and the council has offered free parking for the medieval parade on Friday, so it’s all good.

“The different council departments seem to be keen to work more closely with our chamber of trade and town council which is a very positive development.”

Llandudno Junction councillor Mike Priestley commented: “Free parking is a great gesture, it would also be great to get feedback from the retailers to see if it helps boost their business during this vital time.”