A COUNCIL is hoping to have solved a problem for a resort's traders, following months of disruption caused by construction work on a multi million pound shops complex.

Municipal car parks will be free to motorists in Redcar, east Cleveland, over Easter.

The same goodwill gesture is being extended to the market town of Guisborough.

It means there will be six free days of parking on Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council-owned car spaces in both towns.

The move involves more than 1,000 spaces on both on-street, off-street, short stay and long stay car parks.

"We are hoping this will create a bumper Easter for both towns," said Councillor Sylvia Szintai, the borough's lead member for the environment and infrastructure.

"We know it hasn't been easy for shops and businesses in Redcar because of the work involved in building the new shopping development in the town.

"But the work of the disruption is over and now we believe this latest piece of good news will encourage more shoppers to come in over Easter," she said.

Pat Denney of Redcar Business Association said: "This is a welcome incentive for Easter shoppers and visitors to the town during this important holiday period."

Stan Franks, chairman of Guisborough Business Association, said: "We are pleased to hear the council is ready to help and hope it will lead to a bumper Easter for all of us."

Every house across the borough will receive a council leaflet explaining the Easter parking arrangements together with an update on Redcar's Regent Walk development.