Two hours free parking will be in place for people attending the NHS vaccination centre at the Cliffs Pavilion from tomorrow (Thursday 4 February).
The Shorefield Road car park will offer up to two hours free parking as part of the council’s efforts to support the NHS whilst they carry out the essential vaccinations at the site.
Anyone not attending the vaccination centre should purchase a ticket as normal. Volunteer marshalls will be on site to ensure drivers are aware of the two hours free parking, answer any queries and direct people to the vaccination centre if needed.
All seafront car parks and bays remain closed at this time.
Cllr Ron Woodley, cabinet member for transport, inward and capital investment, said: “We have been working with our NHS colleagues on plans for this site in recent weeks, and am pleased that we can confirm that there will be two hours free parking available at these car parks for those visiting the vaccination centre. With the centre open and operational from tomorrow, it was essential we made provisions for those attending their vaccination appointments, and to ensure we support the roll out as best we can.
“Two hours free parking allows adequate time for people to attend and have their jab at the time allocated, but we would ask that people leave the car park once they have had the vaccine, to allow others to use it for their allocated vaccine slot.”
Cllr Trevor Harp, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “The monumental effort of NHS staff and local volunteers to get the site ready for operations has been incredible. The people of Southend have really got on board with the messaging around staying at home, and we are seeing a positive impact of the national lockdown in place.
“As a health and care system, we have the facilities in place to really push on with local vaccinations now, and I am pleased that following detailed discussions since it was confirmed that this venue would be used as a vaccination centre, free parking is being offered for those visiting the site. If you are offered your vaccination, I urge you to book in to have it done so that we can all keep working towards making sure people are safe and well.”
Signage has been erected in the car park ahead of the opening tomorrow.
NHS and care workers are reminded they can apply for a parking permit via our website.