Free parking deal threatens bus services

摘要

Newport City Council could pile further pressure on bus operators if it institutes free parking, according to Stagecoach South Wales managing director John Gould.Many councils, including Newport, suspend parking charges for Christmas shoppers but Newport councillors propose to abolish charges year-round for the first 2hr of any stay at council-owned car parks. They believe this will help to 'keep Newport vibrant'. However, the council's chief financial officer warned that the proposal would cost the council at least ￡700,000 per annum of lost revenue, adding: 'The suggestion to reduce parking charges to attract additional custom within the city centre is currently not backed by statistical evidence.'