Widnes Market saw a 25% drop in footfall after car parking charges were introduced at the nearby Green Oaks Shopping Centre.
Figures published by Halton Borough Council showed nearly 252,623 visitors went to the market in May this year, but that number plunged to 189,786 in June. This coincided with the end of a grace period offered at the car park, with penalty charge notices (PCNs) being issued from May 24 to anyone who failed to pay the £1 parking fee.
Footfall recovered by 8% during July, returning to just above 205,000. The car park is part of neighbouring Green Oaks Shopping Centre and is the closest place to park to access council-owned Widnes Market.
