Council decides against increasing car park fees

A price freeze has been announced for council-run car parks in the Amber Valley area.

Cabinet members at Amber Valley Borough Council met to review charges for its 26 car parks on Wednesday but decided against an increase.

The authority said the decision was made to support town centre footfall and avoid placing additional costs on motorists during ongoing cost of living pressures.

Deputy leader Emma Monkman said: "We know that many people are feeling the pressure of rising costs, so it felt right not to increase car parking charges at this time."

The council said it had kept charges unchanged since 2020 while continuing to invest in its parking provision.

However Monkman said there were no plans to make the car parks free.

"We understand why people ask about free parking, but there are real costs involved in running and maintaining our car parks," she said.

"By keeping charges as low as we can, we're able to support residents, businesses and visitors, while making sure these facilities continue to be there for everyone."

Listen to BBC Radio Derby on Sounds and follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.