Businesses welcome free car parking offer extension

Businesses across Bridgend county borough have welcomed news that several council-maintained town centre car parks will continue to be free to use.

The offer, which was due to end this month, will now continue until after Christmas. 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.

Town centre businesses say they are already reaping the benefits of the Bridgend County Borough Council scheme and have welcomed news that it has now been extended.

Beth Daniel, who runs a hair salon in Bridgend and chairs the Bridgend Traders Forum, said: “Bridgend Traders Forum are delighted with the news that the local authority is extending the ‘three hours free’ parking offer at the Rhiw car park.

“This offer has encouraged more people to come to our local town centre and support the local traders who have had a tough time with lockdowns over the last 18 months.

“We hope that this will help bring more trade in, especially with the festive season around the corner.”

Michelle, from Porthcawl jewellers Divine, said: “We are thrilled to hear the news about the extension of free car parking until after Christmas.

“This has made a huge difference to footfall in Porthcawl and we’ve really seen the results of this increase - more people in town with more time to shop.

“It’s a great support for us local businesses who are trying to get back up and running and recovering from months of closure.”

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.