South Shields changes to give visitors an hour of free parking

Drivers parking in South Shields town centre will soon be offered one hour of free parking at council-run car parks, with a new £1 per hour rate for subsequent time.

The changes, approved by cabinet last November as part of the South Tyneside Council’s annual review of fees and charges, replace the previous 1p-per-minute tariff for the first hour of parking.

Councillor Jim Foreman, lead member for governance, finance and corporate services, said: “We’ve listened to feedback and simplified our parking charges to make it easier and more attractive for people to visit South Shields town centre.

“Offering a free hour of parking is a practical way to support our high street and local economy while still ensuring we can manage demand and maintain services.”

The new parking charges are expected to take effect from Wednesday, April 1. (Image: Google Street View)

The new tariff will apply to all council-operated car parks in the town centre, including Mill Dam.

The council said the scheme is designed to support local businesses, increase footfall, and make parking more affordable and convenient for both residents and visitors.

Subject to the completion of legal processes, as well as the installation of updated signage and payment systems, the new parking charges are expected to take effect from Wednesday, April 1.

As part of the same review, the council has approved an increase in foreshore parking tariffs along the seafront, to bring South Shields in line with other coastal areas in the region.

The new charge will be £1.60 per hour or £8 for a full day, while the Foreshore Permit will rise to £170 per year.

Read more:

This increase reflects a previous cabinet decision.

The council has aimed to maintain some of the lowest parking fees in the region, but said this has contributed to financial pressures.

Through the review process, it has opted to retain subsidies across as many areas as possible, ensuring that services remain accessible and targeted toward those most in need.