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Temporary free parking is to be offered in South Shields town centre to help businesses bounce back from coronavirus.

Parking charges in council-owned car parks and on-street parking will be suspended all day on Saturdays and after 12pm Sunday to Friday to aid economic recovery.

It is hoped the offer will help boost the economy and support the reopening of the high street and hospitality industry.

The offer will run from next Monday, May 17, in line with the next phase of the government's roadmap out of lockdown. It does not apply to Foreshore car parks.

Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of Â鶹ÊÓƵ, said: "The last year has been extremely challenging for our business community, particularly the retail and hospitality industries, and we're keen to do all we can to help them recover.

"We're offering temporary free parking as an additional incentive to visit the town centre, do a bit of shopping or get a bite to eat.

"We've extended the offer all day on Saturdays to encourage people to come and browse and buy in our fantastic market."

The offer will run until August 31 and supports the key priorities set out by the council earlier this year to create the conditions for recovery and investment, and to support town centres, high streets and hospitality.

Cllr Ernest Gibson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, said: "This offer will benefit shoppers, visitors and traders alike.

"Businesses large and small are the backbone of our local economy and it's vital we support them in any way we can."

For more information about town centre car parks, visit /article/38111/South-Shields-Town-Centre-car-parks