Kirklees Council has continued with its commitment to support the local economy by opening a new car park with 230 long-stay spaces at the former Huddersfield Sports Centre site on Old Leeds Road.
The car park will go some way to addressing the loss of spaces following the closure of the market hall car park, and in turn support more footfall into the town centre.
The additional long-stay spaces are of particular importance for commuters. As whilst all car parks in Kirklees are currently operating for free, the council will be enforcing maximum stays in its short stay spaces and issuing fixed penalty notices to people who stay longer than they should.
Cllr Rob Walker, Cabinet Member for Environment said: “Following our announcement that we would be extending free parking in all council-owned car parks and parking spaces until the end of the year, I am delighted to be able to offer even more places for people to park.’
“I recognise that the Old Leeds Road Car Park is a little out of town and at the bottom of a hill, so it might not suit everyone. However, if you can walk, and maybe want to get some fresh air and exercise before heading into work or shop, I’d encourage you to give Old Leeds Road Car Park a try. By being considerate and parking that bit further away you will be leaving spaces closer to town for those who might otherwise struggle.”
Cllr Naheed Mather, Cabinet Member of Greener Kirklees said: “Whilst we want to encourage people to walk or cycle more, we recognise that for people travelling from further afield there is still a need to travel by car, especially as numbers on public transport are currently reduced due to COVID – so it is right that more spaces are available to them.”
For details of all council car parking spaces including the maximum stay please visit www.kirklees.gov.uk/parking