£1 Saturday Parking Plan Proposed to Boost Newtown Town Centre

A proposal to introduce £1 all-day parking in Newtown on Saturdays will be debated by town councillors next week in a bid to attract more shoppers and visitors to the town centre.

The “Parking for a Pound – Parcio am Bunt” initiative has been put forward by Councillor Richard Edwards and seconded by Councillor Chris Jones. It aims to encourage more people to spend time in Newtown’s shops, cafés, pubs and markets by offering a low-cost parking option on the busiest trading day of the week.

Under the proposal, drivers would pay just £1 to park all day at the Back Lane car park every Saturday. The scheme would begin in April 2026 for a six-month trial period.

Although car parks in Newtown are managed by Powys County Council, the initiative is being proposed and funded by Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council, which would work with the county council to deliver and monitor the trial.

Cllr Edwards said the initiative was designed to give the town’s economy a “direct and immediate boost” while sending a clear message that “Newtown is open for business.”

“Increasing footfall is vital for the health of our town centre,” he said. “By reducing parking costs, we make it easier and more appealing for people to shop locally, meet friends, and spend more time in our town. It’s a small step that could make a big difference for our independent retailers and hospitality venues.”

The motion notes that local traders face growing competition from out-of-town retail parks and online shopping, and that the cost of parking can deter visitors from staying longer in town.

It also highlights how the plan aligns with the Newtown Place Plan, which sets out policies to improve the town centre’s vitality, support local businesses, and enhance the visitor experience.

If approved, the scheme would be promoted under the banner “Saturday Parking for a Pound”, tying into the wider “Destination Newtown” brand. Councillors believe the simple and memorable slogan would help market the town as a welcoming and affordable place to visit.

The proposed initiative would be monitored during its trial period, with the Town Council working with Powys County Council and local businesses to assess its impact on footfall and trade. A review would then determine whether to make the scheme permanent.

The motion will be discussed at the full meeting of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council next week.