County’s Free Festive Parking a Victory for Plaid

South Wales West AM Dr Dai Lloyd has welcomed the announcement of free parking in Neath, Port Talbot and Pontardawe town centres over the Christmas period. Speaking in reaction to the announcement, Dr Lloyd said,

“I am pleased to see that Neath Port Talbot Council has made use of extra funding secured by Plaid Cymru through our budget deal with the Welsh Government. The extra money for Councils across Wales to implement these initiatives is only available thanks to Plaid Cymru fighting for a fairer deal for local authorities.”

Speaking specifically on the announcement on free festive parking in Neath Port Talbot, Dr Lloyd stated,

“Town centres across Wales are in need of help to ensure they not only survive but thrive and attract new visitors. By making this money from Welsh Government available I hope to that historic market towns such as Neath and the local high streets of Pontardawe and Port Talbot will see an increase in footfall and, in turn the local businesses in these town see an increase in trade in what is always a busy and important month for the retail sector. This offer is running from mid-December and so gives plenty of time for residents to support their town centres”

Jamie Evans, Plaid Cymru County Councillor for the Neath South ward added,

“The return of free parking over the Christmas and New Year period in Neath, Port Talbot and Pontardawe town centres is a very welcome investment by the council, shoppers will be able to take full advantage of their local town centres and high streets. Neath is a fantastic town and I hope that people will take advantage of the free parking to visit over Christmas. I am grateful to the hardworking Plaid Cymru team in the Assembly for securing this extra funding from the Government.”

The free parking period across Neath Port Talbot runs from Saturday 15th December to Tuesday January 1st.