One-hour free parking announced for town centre

Free parking for an hour has been introduced at council-run car parks in Rotherham town centre.

Earlier this year, the council announced £50,000 in its budget to fund the scheme, which is now available on weekdays.

It was aimed at supporting local businesses, boosting footfall and encouraging residents to shop locally, according to the council.

John Williams, cabinet member for transport, jobs and the local economy, said: "Our introduction of one hour of free parking is another practical step to support our town centre businesses."

"Anyone needing to nip to the bank, market or into a shop can now do so without worrying about paying, so long as they display a ticket," he said.

"The free parking initiative underlines our focus on delivering a vibrant, safe and welcoming town centre experience for all."

The one-hour free parking was in addition to free parking already available at weekends in council-owned off-street car parks, a spokesperson for the authority said.

Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North