Metrolink are to trial free overnight weekend parking for Christmas shoppers at Ladywell Park and Ride in Eccles.
The 250-space car park, which has 22 spaces for disabled Blue Badge holders will be open for shoppers from Friday 4 December to leave their cars and catch the tram into Manchester.
The offer is part of a three month trial to see if overnight weekend parking at Metrolink stops could become permanent.
More than 2,500 parking spaces will open up for Metrolink customers at 15 stops on Fridays and Saturday nights from 4 December – if they pick up their car before 12 noon the following day.
Also included in the trial are car parks at Brooklands (108 spaces), Stretford (33), Bury (100), Crumpsall (43), Prestwich (36), Radcliffe (369), Whitefield (216), East Didsbury (302), Ladywell (250), Hollinwood (190), Oldham Mumps (270), Rochdale Rail Station (217), Derker (251) and Shaw and Crompton (90) stops.
The review of parking hours has been prompted by the recent rapid expansion of the Metrolink network, which has tripled in size to 92 stops, and opened up many more travel opportunities for both shift workers and people planning a late night out at venues right across the region.
Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) Metrolink Director, Peter Cushing, said: “We’ve listened closely to our customers who want to park overnight and what better time of year to try it out on weekends?
“There’s a booming festive night-time economy both in the city centre and right across Greater Manchester.
“I’m sure there are plenty of people going for a night out, or working a late shift, who want to catch the tram without having to worry about leaving their car behind.
“I hope this trial can help people enjoy all the region has to offer at this time of year, without the hassle of searching for a parking space.”
Since 2012, parking at Metrolink park and ride car parks outside of tram service hours has been prohibited and subject to a parking charge notice, payable in full to a management company with no revenue for TfGM.
Main image by Fred Collins via Flickr
