Here are the four streets in Northampton town centre about to be turned into ‘premium parking zones’ by council
Four of the most popular streets in town are about to become ‘premium parking zones’ with higher charges being introduced in just 11 days time.
St Giles Street, Abington Street, George Row and Mercer’s Row have been earmarked by the Reform-led West Northants Council (WNC) as being ‘some of the most popular on-street parking locations’ in the town centre and will therefore have premium charges enforced from August 17.
WNC said that a review found that some streets experience particularly high demand for parking, especially at busy times, while other nearby parking locations are used less often.
By introducing higher charges in the most sought-after locations, the council aims to ‘improve the availability of spaces, reduce congestion caused by drivers searching for parking, and encourage a better spread of parking demand across the town centre.’
Parking machines in the premium zone have been painted red to make them easy to identify, while standard parking machines will remain black. The updated charges will apply to cash, card and PayByPhone payments.
Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: "We know how important convenient parking is for local shops, businesses, residents and visitors. That's why we're looking at ways to make better use of the spaces available across the town centre."
"Some areas are in very high demand and can become full quickly, while there is often capacity in nearby locations. By encouraging drivers to use a wider range of parking options, we can help make spaces easier to find and reduce congestion caused by people driving around looking for parking."
"Our goal is simple: to create a parking system that works more efficiently and makes visiting Northampton town centre a better experience for everyone."
Information about parking charges will be displayed on parking machines within the premium zone.
The proposal formed part of the council's approved 2026/27 budget proposals and follows similar approaches used in other towns and cities across the UK, according to WNC.
The Chron reported last week that motorists are set to lose almost 200 more parking spaces in the town centre after WNC announced temporary closures of Upper Mounts and Newlands car parks on September 1 as part of work to support the proposed Greyfriars regeneration scheme.
This is on top of the loss of 1,000 spaces withing the Mayorhold which unexpectedly closed last month.