A NEW scheme offering residents discount parking if they shop in certain town centre retailers has been launched in Colchester.
Colchester Council’s new MiPermit Discounts scheme, one of the first of its kind in the country, is designed to boost the town’s recovery from the pandemic and means motorists can secure discounts of up to £5 when they make a purchase in a participating town centre business.
Each time a driver pays using the MiPermit app at a council car park they will be given a QR code, which can be scanned at participating businesses.
Simon Crow, councillor responsible for environment and sustainability, said: “This innovative parking discount scheme not only supports our new parking strategy for Colchester but is also a fantastic way for us to support town centre businesses following the impact of coronavirus restrictions over the last year.
“We have worked closely with Colchester’s Business Improvement District and local businesses for many months to develop the scheme and will continue to do so as the pilot progresses, and we hope lots of motorists will make use of this fantastic offer.”
“Usage of the MiPermit app in Colchester has soared over the last year, and for those who haven’t yet downloaded the free app, it’s a very quick, easy, secure and contactless way to pay for your parking and is also where all the council’s parking offers can be found.”
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The participating venues for the pilot scheme are - Manns Music, Bill and Berts, Baccus, Emmaus, It’s All at No 11, Blue Sky Printing, bang & Olufsen, Loofers and North Hill Hotel. Discounts available vary between 50p and £5.
BID manager Sam Good added: “We’re really looking forward to working with Colchester Borough Council and the MiPermit teams to bring this great offer to visitors of Colchester. “This is one of the first project of its kind in the country, and we’re excited to be helping people get discounted parking, and potentially free parking, simply by shopping in their favourite stores.
“We’re keen to get your favourite stores on board so let them know you’d like to see them take part.”
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