Since Harrow Council introduced one-hour-free parking across the borough in the Summer, the initiative has now reached an impressive 500,000 sessions.
The half a million shopping trips have helped boost Harrow businesses and the one-hour-free parking is set to be extended to Harrow Council car parks from late January, say the Council.
It’s hoped that by extending the scheme, it will mean more visits to local shops, more sales, more time spent using local services, more meals and drinks out and more of the best that Harrow has to offer.
Since its introduction in August, the scheme has proved to be popular with both local business owners and their customers.
Georgina Akuoku, from One Stop Tropical Market in South Harrow: “I’ve been here for 22 years and have lost customers because they struggle with parking. So I am really happy the Council are offering one hour free, this will greatly help businesses and customers alike.
“If you’re looking for a Caribbean twist to your Christmas this year, we’ve got some great traditional food including ackee, salt smoked fish, and Grace’s Strawberry Syrup for a true taste of the tropics!”
Cllr Anjana Patel, Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety, said:
“What an incredible way to end the year – half a million free hours of parking in Harrow and counting!
“We promised to put residents first and support our local businesses with an hour’s free parking and I am proud that we are delivering on our promise. We’re helping our local economy to thrive again following the pandemic and make life that little bit easier for our residents too.”
So whether its shopping for gifts or Christmas dinner, Harrow Council are asking shoppers to ‘get behind the borough’s small businesses this festive season’ and ‘shop local first’ – while enjoying an hour’s free on-street-parking.
