Bedford to suspend four-hour free parking at two town centre car parks

Bedford Borough Council has announced that its popular four-hour free parking offer at Allhallows and Lurke Street multi-storey car parks will be suspended from Monday, 3 November 2025.

The decision follows a financial review of discretionary spending as the Council works to manage its budget amid a challenging economic climate.

The four-hour free parking scheme was originally introduced to support local businesses and cultural attractions by encouraging longer visits to the town centre. While the initiative increased footfall and received positive feedback from both visitors and traders, the Council says suspending it will help deliver estimated savings of £150,000 in 2025/26 and around £395,000 in the following year.

Cllr Nicola Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said:

“We recognise the convenience the four-hour free parking scheme offered to town centre visitors and the positive impact it had on local businesses. However, balancing the Council’s finances is essential to continue providing vital services. We are pleased that free parking for the first two hours at Queen Street, and free parking every Sunday across town centre car parks, will remain.”

She also encouraged residents and visitors to consider walking, cycling, or public transport when visiting Bedford.

Although the four-hour free parking will pause at Allhallows and Lurke Street, a number of other cost-effective parking options remain available:

• Two hours of free parking at Queen Street Car Park, Monday to Saturday

• Free parking in all council-owned town centre car parks on Sundays

• Two hours of free parking every Saturday in council-owned town centre car parks

• Free parking between 6pm and 8am in Allhallows, Lurke Street, and Queen Street multi-storey car parks

Cllr Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Planning and Prosperity, added:

“While it’s disappointing that the four-hour free parking scheme has been suspended, we remain committed to supporting Bedford’s town centre and local businesses. Bedford has so much to offer – from shops, markets, and restaurants to entertainment, cultural attractions, and events – and we will continue working with local traders to attract visitors.”