THE introduction of increased parking charges across the county has been delayed in light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

The cost of on-street parking and permits was due to rise on April 27 for the first time in a decade, in a bid to improve air quality, reduce congestion, manage demand and encourage the use of sustainable transport.

But concerns about the impact of the changes on communities affected by Government restrictions saw Cllr Claire Dowling, lead member for transport and environment, deferring the increases until July 1.

Following her virtual lead member meeting on Friday, Cllr Dowling said: “These are extremely difficult times for our communities, and we are all feeling the strain of the ongoing restrictions.

“We want to do everything we possibly can to ensure we are supporting our communities and not adding to the pressure already being experienced by businesses and residents. By deferring the introduction of parking charge changes, I hope we can ease some of the burden.”

Cllr Dowling added: “We are also allowing NHS workers and volunteers and social care workers to park on-street free of charge if they display a copy of their ID or an official document to make it as easy as possible for them to continue their vital work.”

Parking regulations across the county remain in place and are being enforced to ensure those delivering essential services can move around the county freely and safely.