Parking charges and car park times to increase in Malvern

The maximum waiting period is also increasing at a number of town centre car parks.

Shopkeepers have welcomed the increase in waiting time but say the cost and availability of parking in Great Malvern continues to be a barrier to trade.

Sean Austin, who runs Austin & Co in Worcester Road, said: "We welcome the change to the maximum amount of time that can be spent in the town centre car parks from two to three hours.

“It is a constant topic of conversation with customers; and the opportunity to spend more time, and therefore more money, in the town without having to move their cars is good news.

“It's also good to see that they are also keeping the one and two-hour tariffs unchanged in every car park.

“But as I say to my customers, if you want to park in town for three hours for free, don't forget the Waitrose car park. It is greatly under advertised and deserves more promotion.” 

Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) says the proposed changes are the first for most of these tariffs in 12 years.

Shopkeeper Sean Austin has welcomed the increase in waiting time

It is launching a public consultation, giving residents the chance to have their say at www.malvernhills.gov.uk/consultations until 12pm on March 28.

MHDC says traders asked for the maximum waiting period to be increased from two to three hours in the car parks at Belle Vue Terrace, Edith Walk, and Grange Road North and South.

There will be an increase to three hours for vehicles displaying a valid disabled person’s blue badge across all sites.

Other changes could include a cost increase of a 24-hour stay car park from £3 to £4 at the Council House, Victoria Road, Hanley Road, New Street, Priory Road North, Priory Road South, and Teme Street car parks.

Also proposed is an increase in the evening tariff from £1.50 to £2 at all car parks and cost of  Resident Annual Two-Hour Permits from £25 to £30 per year.

But the costs of the most popular tickets - 50p for one hour and £1 for two hours - will be frozen.

Chris Heard says the availability of parking is a barrier to trade (Image: NQ)

Chris Heard of Carnival Records in Church Street said: “The cost and availability of parking in Great Malvern continues to be a barrier to trade.

“Obviously visitors will have less incentive to come into town/spend with local businesses if costs are being hiked. 

“Increased parking hours are clearly a positive step. What is really needed is rent and rates reductions to encourage more small independent businesses into town.”

Cllr John Gallagher, portfolio holder for resources at MHDC, said: “I understand these proposals may be both welcome and unwelcome to drivers across the district.

“The council hasn’t reviewed some of these car park charges since 2012 and the amendments will help continue to provide important services to residents.

“We are also keeping the one and two-hour tariffs unchanged on every car park, at the cheapest levels anywhere in Worcestershire.”