METROCENTRE bosses have confirmed its shopping centre car parks will remain free after a number of signs were incorrectly installed.

Dozens of shoppers took to social media to criticise the Gateshead venue after signs appeared in its main car park saying visits would be limited to four-hours.

The signs, which appeared earlier this month, warned that ANPR cameras were in operation and motorists would face a £100 charge if they exceeded the time period.

On social media, one person said: "(I) went to Metrocentre yesterday - wasn't too bad, and I only queued for 10 mins to get into Primark.

"Anyway, when we came out, we noticed the car park signs had changed - they now only allow 4 hours parking.

"Seems mad when it's such a big place, and there's food and leisure there aswell, and the Government are encouraging people to get out and spend.

"Haven't seen it publicised anywhere, so don't get caught out."

The Northern Echo: One sign was spotted in the car park of Marks and Spencer Picture: LINZI CLARKOne sign was spotted in the car park of Marks and Spencer Picture: LINZI CLARK

But confirming that the signs had been installed in error, a spokesperson for Metrocentre confirmed that parking would remain unrestricted in all of its main car parks.

They said: "The signs were incorrectly installed by an external company and will be removed from our main car parks soon.

"There isn't a time limit in our main car park. Sorry for any confusion caused."

It is thought the signs were intended for the nearby MetroOasis retail park, which houses Starbucks, Krispy Kreme and Toby Carvery, and has a four-hour parking limit.