SOUTHEND'S new parking pass has been used a whopping 20,000 times in the last two months with council bosses branding the scheme a huge success.

The annual parking pass - which allows drivers to park for discounted rates - has already been bought by 2,034 residents since launch on April 1.

Tylers Avenue and Western Esplanade parking bays have seen the most use, with 3,146 and 2,631 visits respectively.

Data released by the council reveals that more than 200 people are signing up to the pass each week.

Ron Woodley, councillor for transport said: “Since its launch, the Southend Pass has been very popular with both residents and visitors alike.

"It is a fantastic parking offer, and the recent figures show that usage has been high in the High Street and seafront, showing the versatility of the Pass, but also how it benefits our primary shopping and visitor areas.

“Increasing the visitors in these areas means there will be a boost for local traders and the local economy, something we are all keen to see following an unprecedented year of challenges due to the pandemic.

“I urge anyone who works or visits the town regularly to purchase a Pass and to reap the benefits of discounted parking.

" This is unlike anything we have seen across the country, and I am delighted that we are blazing the trail with the Southend Pass.”

The pass allows guests to park in any council-owned car park or on-street pay and display for up to three times at a time, costing just £8.50 a month.

The scheme was surrounded by controversy in the build up to the launch with plans adapted after major complaints from the tourism and hospitality industry.

Despite the success, the pass was branded a failure after technical glitches and a slow uptake in its first week of launching.

It’s hoped the cheaper way of parking in Southend will help see a boost for Southend traders and help businesses in their Covid recovery.

The pass is available on the Southend Parking app.

Anyone who doesn’t have access to a smart phone should contact the parking time on 01702 215003 for information on other ways to pay for the pass.

For more information on the pass, visit More information on the Southend Pass is available on our website: www.southend.gov.uk/southendpass.