SHOPPERS can enjoy a post Christmas treat as a free parking initiative is extended for at least several more weeks in Redcar.

The current parking charges motorists enjoy free parking after 1pm throughout the town and the deal will stay in place until February 12 when Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council’s will discuss the topic.

As a result of the temporary extension, people using High Street, Queen Street, Cleveland Street and Station Road will continue to enjoy the offer.

Pat Denney, chairman of the Redcar Business Association, welcomed the decision and hopes councillors will agree to a one-year trial period in an attempt to boost trade.

She said: “This is a step in the right direction and we await the outcome of the full council meeting in February.

“We cannot stress strongly enough how vitally important the parking offer is to Redcar and its business and customers.”

The continuation comes as a review into borough-wide parking has made its recommendations for changes to parking charges which will be initially discussed in Cabinet on January 20 before being debated further by the borough’s 59 councillors.

After the review, two options have been formulated which are: maintain the current rates and don’t implement any changes or, introduce an hour’s free parking in and around the town centre.

This option, which suggests introducing it initially for one year trial, would be targeted at the four on-street parking areas. Parking charges would stay the same in council owned car parks.

Within this option would be the drawing up of detailed plans looking into implementing real time information displays on the number of parking spaces as well as the introduction of new payment methods.

Councillor Steven Goldswain, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Firstly, we believe that extending the period of free parking within Redcar is the fair thing to do for visitors to the town while we look at plans for changes to charges in the coming weeks.

“Secondly, with the results of the parking review providing two clear options for a path forward, we need to work together as a council to ensure we make the right choice for the residents, visitors and businesses of Redcar.”