First hour free summer parking proposed

Councillors at today’s Policy and Resources committee backed recommendations for a ‘first hour free’ approach at Council car parks across Kirkwall and Stromness for the summer period, starting from July 1.

The plans were put forward in response to feedback from Kirkwall BID about the ongoing impact of the pandemic on local businesses.

The proposals are aimed at encouraging residents and tourists alike to visit the town centres for their shopping and boost economic activity at what remains a challenging time for local traders.

The recommendations are subject to agreement at the next Full Council meeting on 31 May.

If approved, the Council would then need to observe a statutory advertising period for one month before the first hour free can be implemented.

It’s proposed the first hour free would then run until the end of September – when the Council’s ‘first hour free’ winter parking policy comes into effect.

The cost of implementing this support, estimated at up to £100,000, will be met from the Council’s Coronavirus Response Fund.