PARK and ride services in Durham are closing as a temporary measure in line with the Government’s plea to the public to stay at home.

Durham County Council’s park and ride facilities at Sniperley, Belmont and Howlands have seen a dramatic drop in usage in recent weeks, as more people work from home and adhere to social distancing rules to slow the spread of coronavirus.

Reduced services have run at Belmont and Sniperley since Wednesday and were fully suspended yesterday morning, while Howlands has operated as a car park.

All three car parks closed at 7pm last night.

Motorists arriving at Belmont and Sniperley yesterday morning were directed to the nearest council car park in the city centre, on and off street, where all parking charges have been waived.

It enables key workers to access ample free spaces in the city centre.

This was done ahead of the Government’s guidance and has further reduced demand for park and ride facilities.

Durham Bus Station will also close on Monday, with all buses using street stops to avoid people having to wait in an enclosed space.

The situation at other bus stations in the county is under review.

Further details are available via www.durham.gov.uk/parking and on www.durham.gov.uk/coronavirus.