24-hour car parking to stay at Wolverhampton Civic Centre
Visitors to Wolverhampton city centre will be able to park round the clock at an indoor car park following a successful trial scheme.
The Civic Centre car park introduced a trial of 24-hour parking following the introduction of new automated barrier system where people can pay for their parking by tapping a bank card on exit.
Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox with the Express & Star’s free newsletter
Council chiefs said the trial proved a success with hundreds of people taking advantage of parking late night and on Sundays, and it has been decided to make the change permanent.
The car park, with entrances in North Street and Wulfruna Street, had previously operated from 7am-8pm, with extended hours for certain events and limited Sunday opening.
The car park, close to the revamped Civic Hall, is popular with concert goers, Wolves fans and those enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Councillor Chris Burden, cabinet member for city development, said: “We want Wolverhampton to be aplace that people can visit and enjoy at any time of day and having a 24/7 carpark offer is an important part of this.
"Opening the Civic Centre car park around the clock seven days a week makes things easier for residents and visitors, while also giving local businesses a boost.
"I hope even more people take advantage of this and make the most of what our wonderful city centre has to offer.
“This is about creating a lively, safe and accessible city centre that benefits everyone.”
Data of how the car park is used will also form part of a wider car parking strategy being developed for the city centre.
Councillor Qaiser Azeem, cabinet member for transport added: “The new technology at the Civic Centre carpark has already made a significant impact by creating a smoother experience for people travelling into the city and 24/7 opening is the next positive step giving people even greater flexibility.
"Providing modern, safe and secure parking facilities is essential to Wolverhampton’s ongoing development and supports the major investment taking place in the city centre.”
The Civic Centre car park is monitored by CCTV and regular security patrols, ensuring a safe environment for users.
The new ticketless number-plate recognition system has also been introduced at the council's Fold Street and Broad Street car parks.
The Broad Street car park also offers a £2 discounted rate from 5pm-5am every day.
