Free "nip-in, nip-out" parking introduced in Tonbridge

New parking charges and times start on Monday

The new charges agreed earlier this year are designed to meet the rising costs of providing 34 car parks across the borough and will also see the introduction of free parking for up to 30 minutes at six locations in Tonbridge.

Most car parks will see charging periods extended to 8pm and to Sundays and bank holidays, excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Notices will be displayed in car parks to remind drivers of the changes.

In Tonbridge, the new “nip in, nip out” free parking arrangement for up to 30 minutes is being introduced at six town centre short stay car parks. They are Bradford Street, Castle Grounds, Kinnings Row, Lamberts Yard, River Lawn and Upper Castle Field. Nine extra pay and display spaces have also been created outside Tonbridge Castle.

New charges at Martin Square, Larkfield, and on-street bays in West Malling are on hold pending the installation of ticket machines which will offer an hour’s free parking at both locations. Charges at Aylesford’s two car parks will not come into effect until an extension of the Bailey Bridge East car park is completed. Once introduced, drivers will have one hour’s free parking and will also be able to purchase a season ticket for £120 a year.

The changes follow a report to councillors last year highlighting a sharp increase in overheads for operating car parks and the need to generate more income. Costs include car park maintenance and business rates of £320,000 and £295,000 per year respectively.

 Cllr Martin Coffin, council cabinet member responsible for parking, said: “We want to ensure that the public have access to safe, secure and well maintained car parks and that they can find a space when they need one.  We have listened to feedback and taken a pragmatic approach that protects the future of our car parks and ensures that the income reflects the rising costs of delivering them. 

 “We want to do all we can to support our towns and villages so I’m pleased we’ve been able to offer short periods of free parking in Tonbridge and elsewhere. This will add to the convenience of making quick trips to local shops and I hope will be welcomed by residents and retailers alike.”

Source: Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council