Tameside Council given business award for free parking initiative

Tameside Council has been presented with a rare business award for its free parking initiative aimed at supporting town centres.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) presented its Business Buddy Award to the council on September 3 after the authority introduced two hours of free parking Monday to Saturday before 6pm in all of its car parks.

Early indications are that the scheme is already proving a huge success, with footfall increasing significantly - even over the quiet summer holiday period - and traders are reporting they are busier.

FSB’s Business Buddy Award recognises individuals, firms or public bodies that have gone the extra mile or done something particularly special for the wider small business community. The last time it was awarded was in 2018. 

FSB Development Manager for Greater Manchester, Robert Downes, said: “We very rarely issue our Business Buddy Award, but this was a no brainer when we heard what Tameside Council were doing for their high street businesses right across the borough. This will be a lifeline for many of them.

“At a time when our high streets are really struggling, it’s fantastic to see a Greater Manchester council stepping up and doing exactly what’s needed for small businesses in this way.

“I have absolutely no doubt this type of support, which as an organisation FSB has long called for, will help save many of the businesses struggling to stay afloat during one of the toughest economic climates we’ve ever seen in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. Early indications are the free parking offer has seen footfall rise by over a third since it was introduced, and more people in town centres means more money ringing through the tills.”

He added: “Amazing work Tameside Council, now which other town hall in GM wants to go next?”  

Receiving the award, Executive Member for Towns, Transport and Connectivity, Cllr Stephen Homer said: “It’s fantastic to receive this independent recognition for the support our free parking is giving to Tameside businesses and town centres. We have listened to what businesses – and residents – have told us they need to support them, and we’ve acted.

“Our parking offer is among the very cheapest in Greater Manchester, making Tameside a very competitive place to visit, shop and do business. We’re seeing our car park usage continuing to increase week on week and traders are telling us they are busier, which is exactly what we wanted.

“I know there’s further work to do to support town centres but this is a huge step in the right direction as we move forwards with our major plans to redevelop and revitalise Tameside’s towns, helping them to transform and prosper in changing times.”