The new parking charges – in effect from 1 April at the council’s city centre car parks – will help support the local economy night and day after extensive engagement with businesses.

The key changes include:

• A flat £2 rate across all city centre council car parks (excluding St Peter’s and the Civic Centre car parks) between 5pm and 5am, making it easier and more affordable for visitors to enjoy the city's hospitality, culture and events. This is a 78% reduction at our most central city centre car parks, from £9 for over 4 hours.
   
• A £3.50 parking fee for 12 hours - starting from arrival any time between 5am and 5pm - at the council’s second biggest car park in Fold Street (330 spaces) and St George’s car park. This is a 61% drop in price at Fold Street.
   
• The Civic Centre car park - now open around the clock - will also have a reduced fee of £10 for over 4 hours (up to 12 hours), while £15 will cover 24 hours.
   
• St Peter’s car park prices will be brought in line with other central sites and have reduced prices applied: 1 hour (£1.50) up to 2 hours (£3) up to 3 hours (£4.50) up to 4 hours (£5.50) and up to 12 hours (£8).

Parking charges have always been kept under review and the reduced charges follow consultation with local businesses and the success of a pilot £2 after 5pm offer at Broad Street - which remains in place.

It forms part of the City Centre Evening and Night time Economy Strategy, aimed at creating a more welcoming, and lively city centre after dark - whilst also supporting daytime businesses.

The city has a strong offer for visitors provided by the city centre’s major visitor venues such as the Grand Theatre, Wolves Football Club and University of Wolverhampton at The Halls. It has also seen the opening of Superbowl UK at the Mander Centre and the Lockworks Cinema at the Chubb Buildings.

A more comprehensive and wider review of council car parks - including fees and charges - will take place later this year.

Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said “These changes are about listening to our businesses and their employees, supporting local jobs and helping more people than ever to enjoy a vibrant and accessible city centre.

“By introducing lower cost parking options, we can help to further boost our high footfall both during the day and into the evening, ensuring our parking offer remains competitive and attractive for visitors.”

Councillor Qaiser Azeem, City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for City Transport, said: “Together with the hi tech upgrades at city centre car parks, these changes will simplify the system and reduce costs for residents, workers and visitors helping to ensure our city centre remains a welcoming and accessible place for everyone.”

Thanks to our track record of managing our money well, combined with a positive financial settlement from Government, we’ve been able to deliver these reduced car park charges and invest in other priority areas for our residents.