The City of London is extending free two-hour parking in London’s core until the end of 2020, as part of ongoing efforts to support local businesses impacted by the pandemic.
Until December 31, all vehicles will continue to be eligible for two hours of free parking daily at municipal on-street parking meters and lots in London’s core, which includes Downtown and Old East Village, by using the promotional code ‘B2B20’ on the HonkMobile app.
The free parking offer is a temporary measure initiated by the City’s Back to Business (B2B) action team, with funding from the Core Area Action Plan. Since its launch in July, free parking has been accessed over 7,100 times.
“The businesses in London’s core have shown great responsibility in following all health precautions to keep customers safe and make them feel a sense of comfort as they shop,” says Mayor Ed Holder. “Shopping local is an important way to show your support for the businesses and for our economy. Free parking makes it even easier to do that.”
“Through the B2B initiative, we’ve talked to local businesses about their needs and have done a number of things to support them, including temporary free parking,” says Jim Yanchula, Manager of Downtown Projects and Business Relations. “We are continuing to work closely with the business improvement associations to stay in step with them and understand their needs as the circumstances with COVID-19 continue to evolve into the fall.”
The City’s B2B initiative was launched to provide rapid and flexible responses to business’ requests associated with reopening and operating during COVID-19. Since its launch on June 9, the action team has assisted with requests for space allowance for curbside pick-up and sidewalk customer queues, as well as temporary measures using public space for expanded outdoor patios.