Amber Valley Borough Council will freeze car parking charges across the borough, supporting residents, visitors and local businesses during ongoing cost of living pressures.
Plans to review charges were included in the Council’s Cabinet Forward Plan, but following consideration by Cabinet on 8 April, a decision was made not to increase car parking charges.
Across Amber Valley, the Council operates 26 pay and display car parks, alongside a number of free car parks, helping people access town centres and local facilities.
Despite charges remaining unchanged since 2020, the Council has continued to invest in its parking provision. Recent improvements include electric vehicle charging points in all four town centres and wider car park upgrades, with PayByPhone set to be introduced to further enhance convenience for users.
(Pictured above: Electric vehicle charging upgrades at Shirley Road car park in Ripley town centre)
Maintaining and improving car parks comes with ongoing costs, from infrastructure and signage to servicing and upkeep. Income from parking helps ensure these facilities can continue to meet the needs of local communities.
Keeping charges at current levels strikes a balance between supporting town centre footfall and ensuring parking provision remains sustainable, without placing additional pressure on council taxpayers.
Every household in Amber Valley receives a free annual parking permit, allowing free parking in the Council’s car parks between 4pm and 8pm, with enhanced permits and season tickets also available.
Speaking about the decision, Councillor Emma Monkman, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration & Estates, said: "We know that many people are feeling the pressure of rising costs, so it felt right not to increase car parking charges at this time.
"Our car parks are part of everyday life for many people, whether that’s popping into town, running errands, or visiting local businesses. We want to keep them accessible, while continuing to invest in improvements, including new technology, that make them easier and more convenient to use.
"We understand why people ask about free parking, but there are real costs involved in running and maintaining our car parks. By keeping charges as low as we can, we’re able to support residents, businesses and visitors, while making sure these facilities continue to be there for everyone."
For full details on parking locations, charges and permits across Amber Valley, visit:
https://www.ambervalley.gov.uk/carparks
Contact the team directly on 01773 570222 or email enquiry@ambervalley.gov.uk
