Local News

No parking charges, just yet

Car Parking in Andover Hampshire

The Andover town centre car parks run by Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) will remain free for a further extra week as we come out of the ‘national lockdown’.

The council says this is “in a bid to support shoppers and local businesses”.

Parking charges will resume on Thursday 10th December 2020, meaning an additional seven days of free parking for people to pop into town and shop locally completely free of charge. 

Portfolio holder for transport and deputy leader, councillor Nick Adams-King, said, “It’s more important than ever before that we support our local retailers and town centres, which is why we are offering an extra seven days’ parking completely free of charge. And even after we reinstate the parking charges, it’s just £1 for two hours. So why not take the opportunity to enjoy a wander around town, grab a drink and treat yourself and your loved ones to some of the many fantastic gifts and goodies on offer.”

Cllr Nick Matthews posted online, “It’s fab that we remain able to assist and support in the best ways we can throughout these difficult times.”

Andover’s local council suspended charges in all its car parks on 5th November to coincide with the start of the second national lockdown. The authority removed the charges to support those heading out to collect supplies for themselves and others and to provide additional parking for those living in and around the town centres who were confined to their homes.

Parking will remain free after 4pm Monday to Saturday as well as all day on Sundays and bank holidays. People can also make the most of the year-round free parking periods at Romsey Rapids and Shepherds Spring Lane in Andover. Further information can be found at www.testvalley.gov.uk.

The free parking applies to TVBC-owned car parks.

About the author

David Harber

David Harber is the founder and Managing Director of Love Andover, including the Love Andover Observer newspaper and 95.9FM Andover Radio. He is a fellow at the Royal Society of Arts and a card carrying member of the Nation Union of Journalists.