Call for free parking in run-up to Christmas

This step has already been taken by Gedling Borough Council for the main shopping areas of Arnold, Carlton, Mapperley and Netherfield. However shoppers still need to display tickets when parking.

The free period will be in place for about three months, during which time a decision will be made about whether it can continue.

Gedling Council leader Coun Roland Spencer (Con) said: "We know this is a really important trading period in the run-up to Christmas and we hope this is a further indication of our support for the local economy.

"We will be monitoring the impact of car-park charging at the end of November and will meet with local businesses in December to see how it is going."

Coun Mick Murphy, a Hucknall Conservative member of Notts County Council, said he would certainly support a similar concession by Ashfield Council for Hucknall so that retailers of the town could reap the benefits.