Parking charges frozen

The Minister said: My officials and I have been working hard to gain agreement for the freeze on car parking charges in this budget period and I am pleased that the Executive has come to an agreement on this issue. 
“This is exactly the sort of mechanism we need to give a confidence boost to traders and those who shop and work in our towns and cities and it illustrates that elected representatives can deliver positively for our own people. 
“I believe that this will be warmly welcomed by shoppers and traders in town centres and it comes at an opportune time in the run up to Christmas.”
The proposed increases in off-street parking were for Carlisle Rd, Foyle Rd, Society St, Strand Rd, Victoria Market and Bishop St car parks but these will now not be taken forward.

The Minister also committed to ensuring that there will be some free parking for motorists in most towns. Within the Londonderry City area there are over 220 free car parking places available at Alfred St, Railway Yard, Shantallow and Simpson’s Brae car parks.

The Minister concluded: “This is excellent news for all those wishing to use Londonderry City centre this Christmas but please do make sure that you park properly and safely for the benefit of everyone.”