Seafront parking reduced this winter to support Southend’s local businesses

October 15, 2025

Southend-on-Sea City Council is introducing its winter parking discount to support local shops, seafront businesses and residents during the quieter months, when demand for parking naturally falls.

From 1 November 2025 to 31 January 2026, parking at all Zone 1A locations, along the seafront, will be charged at a discounted rate. That means hourly rates will fall from £3 to £2.30, a 23% saving, with longer stays seeing reductions of 10% to 23%, depending on duration.

This seasonal offer for Southend builds on other initiatives, such as free Sunday parking throughout December in selected council-managed off-street car parks, aimed at encouraging people to shop local and enjoy everything Southend has to offer, without watching the clock or worrying about parking costs. The offer is designed to encourage residents and visitors to make the most of the fantastic attractions and experiences Southend has to offer, without the summer crowds.

With the festive season approaching, the council wants to make it easier and more affordable for people to spend time in the city, whether that’s shopping, visiting the seafront, or enjoying a day out with family and friends. It’s part of a wider commitment to championing Southend’s vibrant community and supporting the places that make us proud of our city. This forms part of our proud and prosperous theme within our Corporate Plan.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: “We said we would introduce a seasonal parking offer, and listening to businesses along the seafront in what months it operates, we are delivering this first ever winter parking tariff from November through to the end of January.

“By introducing a seasonal discount, we hope to attract more people to the seafront and encourage people to support local traders at a time of year when visitor numbers are lower. Promise made, promise delivered.”

Residents and visitors are also reminded that the Southend Pass still provides the best value offer, giving even greater flexibility and savings across the city’s parking locations.

Pass holders can park for up to 3 hours at a time across the city, with an additional 3-hour allowance in the central seafront area (Zone 1) or University Square Car Park after 6pm. A new session must be booked for the evening period, which is free, making it easy to enjoy the seafront later in the day, including fireworks or other events.

Nick Singer, Operations Director at Kingpins on Lucy Road, added: “This is a positive step by the council, and one that will genuinely benefit our seafront community. Winter is always tougher for businesses along the front. Making a day out more affordable encourages more people to visit and spend locally, and I very much welcome that.

“With the Southend Pass, you can park in the central seafront area during the day, then book a free evening session after 6pm, so you could come down for shopping or lunch, then return later for the fireworks or a stroll along the front without worrying about parking costs.”

To find a car park near you, including a map and full details of the off-season parking offer and Southend Pass, visit our parking pages.