FOUR extra car parking spaces have been created to ease congestion at an allotment in Bishop Auckland.

The additional parking spaces, located alongside Pollards Allotments, were funded by the area’s ward councillor, Cllr Sam Zair.

He contributed a total of £9,000 from his neighbourhood budget to fund the spaces.

The neighbourhood budget is administered by Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership.

Cllr Brian Stephens, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local partnerships, said: “At peak times Pollards Allotments and the surrounding area were very crowded due to the limited parking. I am delighted to support this scheme, which has not only improved the local environment but also made the area safer for both traffic and pedestrians.”

Local residents and allotment holders also welcomed the additional parking, with Pollards Allotment holder Bobby Latcham describing the new spaces as “a magnificent addition, and a job well done."

Chris Davison, chairman of Pollards Allotment Association, said: “The new parking provision is getting used every day and has made a big difference for users of the allotments and also the local residents.”