23/01/2023: Car park approach to be made permanent after successful trial

A car parking trial in Attleborough has been hailed a success after bringing more shoppers to the high street. As a result, Breckland Council, with the support of Attleborough Town Council, has agreed to make the trialled approach at Queen's Square Car Park permanent.

From 27th January 2023, motorists will continue to be offered three hours of free parking between 8 am and 6 pm, Monday to Saturday, at Queens Square Car Park in Attleborough. Following feedback received during the initial trial, consultation will now be undertaken to extend the wait period to four hours.

The decision comes after Breckland Council trialled a short stay approach for 6 months, monitored the impact on the car park, and spoke to users, residents, and local businesses. Over 58% of survey respondents agreed that the trial should be made permanent.

Having reviewed feedback during the trial for the Queens Square Car Park it is apparent that there is also a need for longer stay parking specifically for those that work in the town centre, therefore Breckland will also undertake consultation to create long stay parking at both the Edenside and Horsepit Car Parks in the town centre.

Cllr Paul Hewett, Executive Member for Property, Projects & Procurement, commented: "The Attleborough Queen's Square car park trial has clearly demonstrated that local shoppers wanted more car park spaces adjacent to the high street and this trial delivered that. Our public survey not only showed the majority favoured the car park changes, but our monitoring recorded how it was easier for shoppers to find convenient parking to access the local shops, which is good for shoppers, businesses, and the local economy.

We have also listened to those residents and businesses during the trial, and I am pleased we are looking to provide a longer time period at Queens Square and a long stay facility at our other car parks."

Cllr Philip Leslie, Mayor of Attleborough, commented "Our unique range of independent shops in Attleborough offer something for everyone, and I fully support any initiative, supported by the public, which will help bring in more shoppers to the town. These are challenging times; therefore, we need to support our high street businesses and help open up our high streets to shoppers from around the district."