Shoppers can continue to take advantage of a suspension on parking charges at all Dudley Council owned car parks until August 1st.

It is hoped the free parking extension will help frontline staff and enable people to support local businesses during the coronavirus crisis. People with parking season tickets will see payments suspended for an additional month.

Dudley Council originally suspended all town centre parking charges in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. The decision was taken in addition to the council’s existing offer of two hours free parking during the day and free parking overnight, which remains in place.

All other parking conditions still apply, such as the permitted duration for the short and long stay car parks, and Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) will continue to be enforced. Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environment, highways and street services, said:

"We want to continue to support our frontline workers, local traders and businesses and encourage shoppers to return, that’s why we are offering this free parking extension.

"Dudley Council is working with our town centre businesses to help people shop and visit safely and by removing the need to use the pay and display machines during June and July we are continuing to play our part in this important work.

"I would encourage all our residents to shop local wherever possible and would ask all visitors to remember to adhere to social distancing guidelines throughout their time in our town centres."

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, added:

"These have been challenging times for our traders and town centres. This extension of free parking will be the boost our traders need and will remind people that Dudley borough is open for business.

"People can come to our towns and take advantage of this offer but I would urge them to continue to stay alert and to continue to follow the government’s guidance on keeping themselves and others safe.

"Car parking charges are now in place at Himley Hall and Park and motorists are reminded to always check for latest information when parking anywhere in the borough."

More information about Dudley Council’s response to the coronavirus, including how to access services and support, can be found at dudley.gov.uk/coronavirus.