BUSINESSES fear that a new parking scheme is deterring shoppers from spending more time in their High Street - with almost 70 per cent of customers opting to stay for a mere 30 minutes.

Retailers and other businesses on Northallerton High Street say the new parking regime – where motorists must get a free 30 minute ticket or pay 80p an hour – has had a profound impact on trade since its introduction last June.

One local trader submitted a Freedom of Information request to North Yorkshire County Council and was told the pay and display income from June 2014 to December 2014 was £121,252.

The request comes as the controversy surrounding the parking charges in the town continues, with traders fearing that shoppers are being put off from staying longer to visit the shops.

The FOI request also revealed that 68 per cent of people visiting the High Street stayed only for the free 30 minutes – which traders say is worrying because it means customers are not spending time and money in the town.

The figures reveal that just 17 per cent of visitors stay for an hour while just 15 per cent stay for two hours.

Nicky Burton, part of the family that owns Maxwells electrical store in the town, said custom had changed since the charges were brought into force.

She said: “Half an hour is not long enough. We have found that people are aware of how long they have and might not have time to take full advantage of our demonstrations of products.

“We would like to see the charges scrapped altogether."

A council spokesman said it believed the scheme was clear.

He said: “We implemented the 30 minutes free period to try and encourage shorter stays.”

“As well as freeing up spaces in the High Street for short-term shoppers, the move is designed to make the town centre more attractive by reducing congestion.”