PARKING charges in Northwich town centre will come into effect on November 27, Cheshire West and Chester Council have confirmed. 

Parking charges and other controls will be introduced at some locations to 'support short stay parking in central car parks and alleviate blockages caused by long-stay commuter use.'

The council says that all tariffs are set at 'modest levels' and some car parks will remain free of charge, such as Baron’s Quay, with free parking for up to four hours.

Other changes include the relaxation of restrictions on Market Car Park, so that shoppers can now park there on market days after 10am.

Blue badge holders will be able to park for free for up to four hours and borough residents can register for a special micro-chip blue badge for use in some large ANPR controlled car parks, as is already the case in Chester.

Cllr Karen Shore, the council’s cabinet member for environment, said: “These new changes and controls for parking in Northwich will introduce the right offers in the right places to encourage visitors, improve disabled provision, and reduce congestion and air pollution.

“We are supporting residents, businesses and the visitor economy and the changes will ensure that parking in Northwich will be easier and more accessible for everyone.”

The council also pointed out that the date of November 27 was chosen purposely to be after the forthcoming celebrations and Christmas lights switch-on in the town on Saturday, November 24.

The announcement comes on the same day that campaigners have launched an appeal to residents and business owners in Northwich to get the decision to introduce parking charges reversed. 

Car park Restrictions/charges

Iceland, Central Palace Drive: Disabled persons’ parking only

Barons Quay: No charges but maximum stay of four hours

Cumberland Street: Charges apply from 8am to 6pm - £1 all day

Hadfield Street: No charges

Market Car Park: On non-market days (Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays), charges apply from 8am to 6pm. Parking is free from 6pm to 8am.

On market days (Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays), only permit holders and disabled persons may park from 8am to 10am. Charges for other users apply from 10am to 6pm. Parking is free from 6pm to 8am.

Charges are as follows: Up to 2 hours – 20p 2 to 4 hours – 50p 4 to 6 hours - £1 Over 6 hours - £3

Memorial Hall: Charges apply 24 hours as follows: Up to 2 hours – 20p 2 to 4 hours – 50p 4 to 6 hours – 80p 6 to 8 hours - £1.10 Over 8 hours - £1.50 Lost/damaged Ticket Charge - £25 Unauthorised Exit Charge - £100 (Parking is free for 3 hours for Leisure Centre members)

Park Street: No charges

Verdin: Charges apply 8am to 6pm as follows: Up to 2 hours – 20p 2 to 4 hours – 50p 4 to 6 hours – 80p 6 to 8 hours - £1.10 Over 8 hours - £1.50

Victoria Club: Charges apply 8am to 6pm as follows: Up to 2 hours – 20p 2 to 4 hours – 50p 4 to 6 hours – £1 Over 6 hours - £3

Watermans: Charges apply 8am to 6pm as follows: Up to 2 hours – 20p 2 to 4 hours – 50p 4 to 6 hours – £1 Over 6 hours - £3

Zion Street: No charges