AN initiative which will see free parking in Darlington on Sundays will be rolled out this weekend.

Starting from November 3, all council-run car parks in the town centre will be free to use on Sundays.

Darlington Borough Council will run the scheme for a period of six months and will include public pay and display car parks, on street pay-and-display bays, and Feethams MSCP.

It is hoped the offer will boost trading in the town and the scheme has been welcomed by business owners.

Councillor Paul Howell, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Local Environment, said: “I’m very happy to promote steps towards bolstering footfall in our town centre, especially around the festive period.

"Free Sunday parking will be an excellent option to those who want to make the most of a weekend in Darlington.

“This is one strand in our efforts to stimulate Darlington Town Centre, and we look forward to retailers and residents seeing the benefits.”

A full list of car parks and on street pay-and-displays included in the scheme can be found here