The cost of parking at some Greater Anglia rail stations is set to fall as the operator commences a trial aimed at attracting people back to rail.
During the pandemic, Greater Anglia saw passenger numbers fall significantly and, although people have been returning steadily since restrictions were lifted, some of its car parks are still not seeing the levels of growth the operator had expected by now.
Greater Anglia has been running a survey online to find out how people’s travelling and parking habits have changed since lockdown and will commence a trial from 23 January for three months, discounting the cost of parking at 14 of its stations.
Tariffs will be reduced at Audley End, Billericay, Bishop’s Stortford, Broxbourne, Diss, Harlow Town, Hatfield Peverel, Kelvedon, Lowestoft, Manningtree, March, Marks Tey, Rayleigh, Whittlesford and Wickford.
The trial follows the introduction of new, hourly parking tariffs at 30 Greater Anglia station car parks, so people have a cheaper option if they’re not planning to park all day, reflecting the way work patterns have changed since the pandemic.
The new hourly tariff gives people the option to park for up to four hours for £1 an hour – perfect for shorter trips or for visiting places near stations.
Greater Anglia also launched a new flexible parking season ticket – giving rail passengers who park at stations regularly two or three days a week a discount of up to 12.5%.
The flexible parking season ticket gives eight parking sessions which have to be used within 28 days of purchase – matching the new Flexi Season train ticket.
The eight parking sessions can be used on any day – there is no need to specify them in advance.
Other tariffs and prices have been frozen since 2020.
Simone Bailey, Greater Anglia’s asset management director said: “With fares frozen until March and our discounted car parking offer, the next few months are a great time to save money by taking the train for part of your journey.
“Our spacious car parks and quick connections into the region’s towns and cities are a great ‘park and ride’ option helping to avoid town centre congestion and pollution – and are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
“With our easy payment options, our car parks are really convenient and we have invested millions in making sure they are maintained to a high standard, and are secure, well-lit and well-managed to offer customers the best possible experience.”
Image credit: Greater Anglia
