Weymouth business offers free parking to boost high street

Sky rocketing parking charges have been an issue around the town ever since Dorset Council raised the prices more than a year ago.

It's claimed it is affecting trade in town while some visitors say they won't return because of the cost.

Now in a bid to get more people into the town centre an opticians is offering an incentive.

Nadene Robertson, director at Friths Opticians in St Mary Street, is offering £10 worth of free parking to customers.

Any customer who books an appointment and then purchases a pair of specs for at least £50 will get the discount to cover the cost of their parking.

READ: Weymouth parking prices 'unacceptable' despite price freeze

It's not just a gimmick to get people using the long established independent opticians, Nadene is keen that people take advantage of the discount to put a few more hours on the parking meter and boost trade for other businesses.

Nadene said: “What I am thinking is we help them, and they can stay longer in town and spend more with local businesses.

“When people phone up for an appointment, we make them aware of the free car parking offer.

“We have had a lot of people mention to us that it’s a good idea – it costs £15 a day (to park in Weymouth town centre) - it’s ridiculous.

“I thought I’d do my bit as a local girl.”

READ: Residents react to North Quay car park in Weymouth opening

Nadene Robertson of Friths Opticians in Weymouth (Image: Nadene Robertson)

Nadene has been working at the opticians for more than 30 years and says it means that customers will no longer have to ‘eye up the meter’ as they pop into to town to grab a new pair of glasses.

The optician says it does not matter which car park is used, whether it be a council car park or a privately owned car park – all will be honoured.

Nadene believes that the car parking costs are having a detrimental impact on the town and its businesses.

She added: “Shops are closing down and parking is not helpful at all.

“It is about trying to get people into town, but it is just too expensive.”

READ: Woman left frustrated at Park Street car park permit renewal

As reported, the new leader of Dorset Council, Cllr Nick Ireland has pledge to make a review of parking charges in the county a priority.

Many local traders have also expressed their dismay at the prices in Weymouth and have welcomed the review.

Nadene is also pleased to hear that there may be changes soon and even suggested a few ideas of her own on how parking could be dealt with in the seaside town.

She continued: “Maybe they could do something like Dorchester or something similar to Swanage where residents have a badge, a permit that could reduce their parking.

“It will be good if they can look into it – something needs to be done.”