🚗 Parliament Street Long Stay Car Park – The Complete Stockton Town Centre Parking Guide
Best-value all-day parking in Stockton-on-Tees — £3 day rate, free after 5pm & on Sundays, a short walk to High Street, ARC & Stockton Splash.
Address: Parliament St, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 3DQ
Coordinates: 54.5595588, -1.3135787
Type: Council Long-Stay Pay & Display (surface)
Open: 24/7
User Rating (indicative): Positive for value and access (typical for town-centre long-stay sites)
💰 Pricing & Permits
Core Tariff (Long-Stay):
- Day rate: £3 all day (typical current council long-stay rate in Stockton town centre).
- Free periods: After 17:00, plus Sundays and Bank Holidays are generally free.
- Operating pattern: Charges typically apply Mon–Sat during daytime; the site becomes free from 17:00 and remains free through evenings, Sundays, and Bank Holidays.
- Payment methods:
- Pay & Display machines (coins; no change given).
- RingGo mobile/app payments (Stockton car parks commonly use RingGo; local voice-pay and app options are available if you prefer not to use coins).
- Season/Long-stay permits: Stockton makes season tickets available for selected town-centre car parks. If you require a permit for regular commuting or staff parking, you can apply via the council’s permit portal (choose the relevant car park from the list). Availability can be limited at peak demand times.
- Blue Badge: In Stockton town-centre council car parks, Blue Badge concessions generally do not waive the tariff during chargeable hours; a valid ticket is normally required when charges apply. Always display the badge correctly alongside your valid parking session.
- Motorcycles: Riders commonly benefit from standard bay usage in surface council car parks. Where separate motorcycle bays are not marked, you should park within bay markings and avoid obstructing payment machines, exits, or footways.
- Overnight parking: The car park is open 24/7. Overnight stays are typically allowed, with free evening periods helping keep costs down. Ensure the vehicle is road legal and parked wholly within a bay; avoid leaving valuables in sight.
Good to know:
- Machine reliability: If a Pay & Display machine is out of service, use an alternative machine in the car park or pay via the RingGo app/phone option.
- Refunds/overpayments: Council Pay & Display machines typically do not give change. Overpayment is not refunded, so consider app payment for precise billing.
- Enforcement hours: Expect active enforcement during chargeable hours (usually daytime Mon–Sat). Clear signage on-site confirms the applicable times and rules.
📊 Capacity & Physical Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Spaces | Approx. ~97 (surface, open-air; typical estimate used by third-party directories) |
| Surface | Tarmac, level layout with standard bay markings |
| Lighting | Council-standard column lighting providing general illumination in evening hours |
| Security | Open site with passive surveillance; no staffed kiosk |
| Height Limit | None (suitable for vans and higher-roof vehicles) |
| Entry/Exit | Direct access from Parliament Street; simple in/out arrangement |
| Signage | Council tariff boards at entrances and near machines; look for the long-stay tariff panel |
| Drainage | Standard surface drainage; during persistent heavy rain, choose central/high-point bays |
Practical observations:
- Bay sizes are standard for UK council surface car parks. Larger vans and people carriers usually fit comfortably thanks to the absence of a height barrier.
- Sightlines are open; reversing and manoeuvring are straightforward even during peak occupancy.
- Ticket placement: Place Pay & Display tickets face-up on the dashboard so the tariff, expiry and plate (if printed) are visible. For app sessions, ensure your vehicle registration is correct in the app.
♿ Accessibility
- Site access: The car park is level from street approach to bays, providing step-free access from most parking positions to the surrounding footways.
- Designated bays: Council webpages do not always publish a specific count for disabled bays at this site. Where marked Blue Badge bays are present, they are close to pedestrian desire lines and signage. If all marked bays are occupied, Blue Badge holders may generally use standard bays (with a valid paid session during chargeable hours) while following all posted conditions.
- Kerbs & crossings: Expect kerb drops near the primary pedestrian routes leading toward Parliament Street and onward to the High Street.
- Toilets & Changing Places: The nearest publicly accessible toilets are within Stockton Splash and central retail centres during opening hours. If Changing Places facilities are required, check the latest council venue listings before travel.
- Assisted access: For visitors needing extra time to exit vehicles or set up mobility aids, consider arriving a few minutes before the lunchtime and late-morning peaks to secure a bay closer to the pedestrian exit.
🔌 EV Infrastructure
- On-site status: EV charging points have been reported at Parliament Street in EV network directories. Live status and tariffs can vary by operator and maintenance schedules. Always check your charging app (e.g., BP Pulse, Blink, Zest, etc.) for real-time availability and session costs before you arrive.
- Parking while charging: Where council rules require it, vehicles must be actively charging while occupying an EV bay. During chargeable parking periods, you may also need a valid parking session in addition to the charging fee—check the on-bay sign and tariff board.
- Nearby rapid/ultra-rapid options:
- Bishop Street / Dovecot Street corridor: A short walk from Parliament Street; hosts a cluster of community and rapid/ultra-rapid chargers.
- A66 corridor & retail hubs: Additional rapid options exist within a short drive (e.g., Teesside Park), suitable for topping up on longer journeys.
EV driver tips:
- Precondition: In colder months, precondition your battery en route to improve rapid-charge efficiency.
- App checks: Confirm connector type (CCS/CHAdeMO/Type 2), kW rating, and session fees (including idle fees).
- Cable reach: Park as close as practical within the bay to keep cables off walkways.
- Etiquette: Do not exceed the posted maximum charging time if one applies; move your vehicle promptly when charging is complete.
📅 Peak Times & Occupancy (typical patterns)
| Timeframe | Occupancy | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays 08:30–10:00 | High (70–90%) | Town-centre staff, trades, commuters |
| Weekdays 12:00–14:00 | Medium-High (60–80%) | Shoppers, errands, appointments |
| Saturdays 10:00–16:00 | High (80–100%) | Shoppers & leisure visitors |
| Evenings after 17:00 | Low (≤30%) | Dining, events (free period) |
What this means for you:
- Commuter arrivals quickly fill the most convenient central aisles. If you aim for a short walk to the High Street, arrive before 09:00 on weekdays.
- Saturday retail peaks are predictable. Arrivals between 09:45–10:30 usually have the best selection before midday.
- Evening events at ARC or along the riverside seldom strain capacity thanks to the free period kicking in from 17:00; your main consideration is proximity to exits rather than bay availability.
🚶 Walkability Score (from this car park)
| Destination | Walk Time | Why Park Here |
|---|---|---|
| Stockton High Street (central) | 5–7 min | Fast access to shops, banks, markets |
| Wellington Square | 7–9 min | Supermarkets, cafés, high-street brands |
| ARC Stockton Arts Centre | 8–10 min | Theatre, gigs, cinema, community events |
| Stockton Splash | 10–12 min | Pool, gym, family facilities |
| Stockton Rail Station | 13–15 min | Northern Rail connections across Teesside and beyond |
Wayfinding highlights:
- From the Parliament Street exit, walk straight toward the High Street; pedestrian routes are well-established and lit.
- For ARC, head toward Dovecot Street; signage along the town-centre grid is straightforward.
- The riverside is also walkable from here; allow extra time if attending large events where pedestrian diversions may be in place.
🛒 Nearby Amenities
Essentials
- Public toilets: Within Stockton Splash and other central venues during opening hours.
- ATMs: Several along High Street (e.g., bank branches and external cash machines).
- Pharmacies & health: Multiple options around High Street/Wellington Square; opening hours vary—check before late visits.
Food & Coffee
- Grab-and-go: National bakeries, cafés, and coffee chains along the High Street offer extended daytime hours.
- Independent cafés & eateries: Dotted through side streets such as Dovecot Street and around Wellington Square; ideal for lunch between errands.
- Evening dining: Pubs and restaurants within an easy stroll; consider the free after 17:00 window for dinner and shows at ARC.
Shopping & services
- Wellington Square combines convenience retail with household essentials.
- Weekly markets on/near the High Street provide local produce and seasonal goods; check operating days if you plan your visit around market activity.
🅿️ Alternative Parking Comparison
| Site | Walk | Cost | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lodge Street (Long-Stay) | 6–8 min | £3 all day | All-day | Reliable overflow for Parliament Street |
| Skinner Street North (Long-Stay) | 6–8 min | £3 all day | All-day | Close to High Street amenities |
| Thompson Street East (Long-Stay) | 10–12 min | £3 all day | All-day | Larger capacity; good Saturday option |
| West Row (Short-Stay) | 7–9 min | From ~£1.50 | Time-limited | Best for quick errands & pick-ups |
Choosing the right alternative:
- If Parliament Street is full before 10:00, check Lodge Street first for comparable walking time and identical pricing.
- For half-day visits, Skinner Street North’s centrality can be advantageous.
- For peak Saturdays or group arrivals, Thompson Street East typically absorbs demand better thanks to more spaces.
⚠️ Important Notices
- Free periods: After 17:00 and all day on Sundays/Bank Holidays are generally free across Stockton town-centre council car parks.
- Blue Badge: A valid ticket is generally required during chargeable hours, even when displaying a Blue Badge. Check on-site signage for any changes or exceptions.
- Events impact: During large events such as the Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF), parts of the town centre can face temporary road closures, diversions, or short-term changes to parking availability. Plan extra time and follow temporary signage.
- No height barrier: Vans and higher vehicles are welcome, but ensure your vehicle is fully within bay markings.
- Keep exits clear: Do not queue across the entrance/exit; enforcement can apply to obstruction as well as to tariff breaches.
- Maintenance windows: Councils periodically resurface or repaint line markings. Temporary suspensions or coned-off areas may appear—observe any suspension signs.
📌 Expert Tips
- Arrive early on weekdays (before 09:00) for a bay close to the pedestrian exit toward High Street.
- Use the free after 17:00 window for evening shows at ARC, dining, or riverside walks; this period tends to be relaxed for occupancy.
- App advantage: Use RingGo (or your preferred operator app) to avoid overpaying coins and to extend sessions remotely if needed.
- Two-car households: If alternating vehicles, double-check the number plate in your app profile to avoid accidental PCNs.
- Paper ticket placement: Ensure the validity time and plate (if printed) are clearly visible through the windscreen.
- Wet weather: In prolonged rain, avoid the very lowest points of the surface and pick a bay a few spaces away from gully grates for easier access.
- Busy Saturdays: If you arrive after 10:30, consider Thompson Street East first as it often retains availability longer.
- EV users: Start your charge session before leaving the vehicle; if parking charges apply at that time, activate both the charging session and the parking session as required by signage.
- Team travel: For group meetings, suggest Parliament Street as the first choice and provide Lodge Street as the overflow. Everyone stays within a short walk.
🔮 Future Developments
- Tariff baseline: Stockton’s long-stay £3 all-day structure has been widely communicated as the council’s current town-centre standard. Councils periodically review tariffs to balance demand, turnover, and town-centre vitality; check on-site boards for the most current rates if you have not visited recently.
- EV rollout: Local authorities and partner networks are incrementally increasing EV coverage. Expect additional or upgraded charge points within walking distance over time, with improved reliability and clearer on-bay signage.
- Public realm & events: Stockton’s riverside and town-centre programme continues to evolve. While improvements deliver better public space and event capacity, temporary works can affect usual access routes—allow a few extra minutes during active works.
Extended Practical Guidance (for visitors, staff, and contractors)
1) Approaching the Car Park
- From A1305/Portrack Lane direction: Follow town-centre signs, then pick up Parliament Street via the inner-grid. Traffic is slower near pedestrian zones; keep an eye for zebra crossings and raised tables.
- From A66 (east or west): Exit to Stockton centre and follow signs to long-stay parking. Parliament Street falls naturally on the approach to the High Street grid; stay in the left lane for easier access to the car park entrance.
- Peak ingress: Expect mild delays between 08:30–09:15 on weekdays and 10:00–11:00 on Saturdays. The queue typically clears quickly once you pass the last set of pedestrian crossings.
2) Signage & Compliance
- Primary signboards at the entrance summarise tariff times, charges, and key conditions (e.g., display a valid ticket, park within marked bays, active charging only in EV bays).
- Supplementary plates may specify exceptions (e.g., event suspensions, maintenance closures). Always check the closest sign to your bay.
- Enforcement is civil (council) rather than police in nature. Adherence to posted terms prevents Penalty Charge Notices.
3) Safe Parking Practice
- Reverse into bays where possible for easier exit, especially when the site is near capacity.
- Keep a door’s width from neighbouring vehicles. Modern bays are generous enough for standard cars/SUVs; avoid straddling lines.
- Children & mobility: Choose a bay nearer to pedestrian routes if you are managing prams or assisting someone with mobility needs.
4) Paying for Parking
- Coins: Have coins ready if you prefer Pay & Display. Machines typically do not provide change.
- App payment:
- Create or log into your account before you arrive to reduce dwell time at the machine.
- Confirm your vehicle reg and location code.
- Keep notifications active so you can extend if needed (within max-stay rules where applicable).
- Receipts & expenses: App payments provide downloadable receipts, beneficial for business travellers.
5) Duration Planning
- Short errands (≤2 hours during chargeable times): Consider West Row (short-stay) if you need a bay as close as possible for quick in-and-out visits.
- Half day (3–5 hours): Parliament Street remains excellent value; you avoid re-feeding machines and can extend seamlessly via app.
- All day (>5 hours): The £3 long-stay rate is purpose-built for full shifts, training days, and contractors.
- Evenings/weekends: Plan around free periods to reduce overall parking cost to £0 for leisure trips after 17:00, Sundays and Bank Holidays.
6) Risk Management & Security
- Visibility: The open layout benefits passive surveillance from passing foot and vehicle traffic.
- Valuables: Remove or conceal valuables; glove boxes and boots are preferable to visible shelves.
- CCTV: While the town centre has camera coverage, treat it as supplementary and not a substitute for secure storage practices.
7) Weather & Seasonal Considerations
- Heavy rain: Choose mid-row bays on marginally higher ground.
- Winter: Watch for early-morning frost; the level surface is simple to navigate but painted lines can be slick—walk with care.
- High heat: If you anticipate leaving pets briefly (not recommended), pick shaded spots where possible and never leave animals unattended in hot weather.
8) EV-Specific Planning
- Check live status in your charging app before arrival to avoid queuing.
- Connector compatibility: Confirm CCS vs CHAdeMO/Type 2.
- Idle fees: Some networks charge idle fees if you remain plugged in after charging completes—factor this into your plans.
9) Accessibility Planning
- Bay selection: If designated disabled bays are fully occupied, select a standard bay that gives the shortest, flattest route to your destination.
- Time allowances: Build in a little extra time during lunch and mid-morning peaks.
- Companions: Where possible, have companions handle payment while you complete access arrangements.
10) Visit Scenarios
- Commuter day: Arrive 08:30, park mid-row, pay £3 via app, walk 7 minutes to the High Street offices; extend or end session from your desk if plans change.
- Family swim at Splash: Park after 17:00 (free) or earlier if you need a daytime slot; pram-friendly routes are available; cafés nearby for post-swim snacks.
- Evening at ARC: Arrive 18:30 (free), choose a bay near the Parliament Street exit; stroll to the venue and back under town-centre lighting.
- Saturday shopping: Target 09:45–10:15 arrival; if Parliament Street is full, divert to Thompson Street East without leaving the town-centre grid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is it really £3 for the whole day?
Yes—Parliament Street follows the town-centre long-stay pattern, which is designed for all-day visits at a flat rate. Always verify on the on-site tariff board on arrival in case of updates.
Q2: Do I pay if I have a Blue Badge?
During chargeable hours, Blue Badge holders should purchase a valid ticket or app session unless signage states otherwise. Free periods still apply for everyone after 17:00, Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Q3: Can I park overnight?
Yes, the car park is open 24/7. Standard rules apply: park within marked bays, and ensure your vehicle is road legal. Night-time is typically quiet and free from 17:00 until chargeable hours resume.
Q4: Are there EV chargers in the car park?
EV points have been reported on-site. Check your charging app for live status and pricing. If occupied or unavailable, nearby Bishop Street/Dovecot Street and retail-area hubs offer alternatives.
Q5: What if the Pay & Display machine is out of order?
Use the mobile app or an alternative machine on site. If both fail (rare), select a nearby long-stay car park and keep notes of the issue (machine ID, time) in case you need to raise it later.
Q6: Is there a height barrier?
No. The site is barrier-free, accommodating vans and taller vehicles.
Q7: Where can I find toilets or baby-change?
Stockton Splash and central retail centres offer facilities during opening hours. For specific needs (e.g., Changing Places), check venue information before setting off.
Q8: Does free after 5pm apply every day?
The free after 17:00 period applies daily, and Sundays/Bank Holidays are generally free all day. Verify on-site signage during special events or temporary orders.
Compliance & Good Conduct
- Stay within markings: Keep all wheels inside bay lines; avoid hatched areas and dropped kerbs.
- EV bays: Use only while actively charging; move on promptly when finished.
- Disabled bays: For Blue Badge use, display the badge correctly and follow any local time restrictions if posted.
- Engines off: Avoid idling; it reduces emissions and respects nearby residents and pedestrians.
- Litter: Keep the area tidy; bins are available along the pedestrian routes to the High Street.
Summary: Why Choose Parliament Street Long Stay
- Excellent value: £3 all-day long-stay tariff.
- Flexible timing: Free after 17:00, plus free on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
- Central yet calm: A short 5–10 minute walk to the High Street, ARC, and leisure facilities without the short-stay hustle.
- Barrier-free: No height limit, with straightforward entry/exit and standard-size bays.
- EV-friendly options nearby: On-site or close-by chargers, with additional hubs within a brief drive if you need rapid speeds.
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