A NEW parking initiative is being introduced into a Moors market town to help make life easier for those wanting a quick shop.

An idea put forward by the Helmsley in Business group has now been given the go ahead by Ryedale District Council and will see motorists able to park for free for a maximum of 20 minutes in designated bays.

Seven of these new ‘Quick Stop’ spaces are now available in Helmsley Market Place, with two reserved for blue badge holders and five for general use.

Although all drivers will still need to get a ticket from the machine, as long as they stay 20 minutes or less no payment will be required.

It is hoped the spaces will stop cars parking dangerously and illegally and blocking access, or taking up space in the side streets around the town centre.

It is planned that the scheme will be extended to cover more spaces north of the Market Place, on land owned by the North Yorkshire County Council.

Carolyn Frank, chairman of Helmsley in Business, said the scheme was a positive response to residents’ feedback.