Parking meters to be switched on

Shoppers will be offered 30 minutes of free parking in central Horsham as meters are switched back on next year.

Parking has been free since the end of March when meters were deactivated in response to the Coronavirus pandemic.

However Councillors, at Monday’s Meeting, resolved to reinstate the fees from January 1.

People who use the EasyPark mobile phone app will receive the first 30 minutes of their stay for free.

Chief Executive Officer Sunil Bhalla said parking meters revenue was invested back into central Horsham amenities.

“That income is allocated to the CBD and Car Park Development Reserve Fund which is used for improvement works throughout the centre of the city,” Mr Bhalla said.

“Parking fees also encourage turnover of parking spaces which ultimately help more people access our local businesses.”

Mr Bhalla said in the lead up to the reactivation of parking meters, parking signage must still be followed.

“I hope residents take advantage of the final days of free parking, however they must be aware that parking time limits and restrictions still apply, this includes loading and accessible parking bays,” he said.

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