As Lockdown eases, shops open and some people are returning to work, Barking and Dagenham Council has pledged its commitment  to the work essential workers have been doing over the past months by extending its offer of free parking for NHS staff and key workers until the end of September. 

When lockdown was announced the east London council quickly recognised the important role NHS staff, key workers and volunteers would play in keeping residents safe and that’s why they offered them the opportunity to apply for a free parking permit.

Since then, over 1600 free permits have been handed out to these essential workers who continue to do incredible work to beat the coronavirus and keep everyone safe. 

Councillor Margaret Mullane, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “I’m delighted that we have made the decision to continue free parking for NHS staff and key workers. They have done amazing work through the pandemic and it’s only right we do everything we can to make their lives as easy as possible. 

“Lockdown continues to ease but we’re not at the end yet and we still have to follow the government’s advice. We have done great so far and I want to thank you all.”

NHS workers, carers and recognised volunteers, living in Barking and Dagenham, can apply for a free parking permit by heading to http://www.lbbd.gov.uk/parking-permits.