Sandwell Council has approved a year-long pilot scheme to offer free parking and free market stall pitch fees in Wednesbury and Great Bridge. The initiative runs from 1 September 2026 until 31 August 2027 and aims to boost footfall, support local businesses and strengthen the town centres.
The pilot will provide up to two hours of free parking for residents and visitors. Market traders will have their pitch fees waived during the year-long trial period.
Why these two towns?
Wednesbury and Great Bridge were selected because their markets currently face greater challenges than other centres in the borough. Markets in West Bromwich and Blackheath perform strongly, but those in Wednesbury and Great Bridge operate at a deficit. The council believes targeted support could help increase activity and improve outcomes for traders and local businesses.
By running a time-limited pilot in areas with the clearest need for evidence of impact, the council aims to gather data before considering wider changes across Sandwell's town centres.
Council's goals
Councillor Ray Nock, Leader of Sandwell Council, said the pilot tests whether reducing costs for shoppers and traders can increase footfall and encourage greater market activity. The findings will help inform the council's wider Town Centre Strategy and future decisions about regeneration, parking and markets across the borough.
