Free parking offer extended at several council-maintained car parks

Bridgend County Borough Council has confirmed that its free parking offer at several council-maintained town centre car parks will be extended.

The offer which was due to end after Christmas will now run until the end of January 2022 – it means that drivers can park for free for up to three hours at the Rhiw multi-storey car park in Bridgend town centre, and between noon and 3pm at the John Street car park in Porthcawl.

Free parking remains available at the Llynfi Road multi-storey in Maesteg and at the Penprysg Road car park in Pencoed. In addition, the Pencoed Town Council owned car park next to the Pencoed Miners Welfare Hall in Heol-Y-Groes is also free.

The Cabinet Member for Communities, Cllr Stuart Baldwin said: “The extension to the free parking offer is part of our continued support for businesses at this time, helping to attract shoppers into our town centres and making visits easier and more accessible.

“This year, our campaign to encourage residents to shop locally has never been more important – for many businesses, the festive season is the busiest time of the year and in shopping locally, you’re not only helping to support your community but you’re also able to make the most of some fabulous deals.

“There are We Love Apps to download for Porthcawl, Maesteg and Bridgend town centres where shoppers can obtain vouchers and discount codes as well as take part in competitions. And on the Digital Christmas website there’s even more to help you do your seasonal shopping with further promotions available.”

Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, the local authority has provided a range of support to businesses, including administering tens of millions of pounds in Welsh Government grants, offering free training and equipment, and discounts to traders renting council premises.