Swindon & Wiltshire News
Salisbury parking to be free in attempt to lure back shoppers
Parking parking will be offered in Salisbury from Saturday in an attempt to lure shoppers and toruists back to the city.
Traders have reported a dramatic drop in footfall since a nerve agent attack aimed at former Russian spy Sergei Skripal.
Wiltshire Council said today that the car parks it manages will be free for visitors ‘until further notice’ in a direct response to calls from business owners.
Free parking will be limited to three hours at short stay to encourage turnover, although long stay car parks including Central will offer unlimited free parking.
Baroness Scott OBE, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “We know people are rightly concerned about Salisbury, and it is important we encourage residents and visitors to enjoy our beautiful and historic city and to promote that it is very much business as usual.
“We are working diligently with local and national agencies and the local MP John Glen to support the local community and businesses.
“We recognise that providing free car parking will help to increase the number of visitors and shopper footfall in the city centre.
“We will be doing everything we can to assist and support Salisbury through this extraordinary situation.”
The Park & Ride service, which was initally made free last Saturday (March 16) will continue to be free of charge for anyone boarding from one of the five city Park & Ride sites.
