Mendip District Council is to offer free parking at its pay and display car parks until 6th August, 2020.

The move means 40 council-run car parks across Frome, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet, Street and Wells remain free to use for a further seven weeks.

Charges were suspended by the District Council on 26th March, to support communities and key workers during lockdown.

As high streets reopen for the first time since the COVID-19 outbreak, news of the continued parking-fee freeze received a warm welcome from businesses and residents.

Leader of Mendip District Council, Cllr Ros Wyke, said: "We know our communities are under enormous strain, which is why we are extending free parking until 6th August.

"Those businesses who have made it through lockdown will require time to recover. Our retailers need the footfall more than ever. This move shows our commitment to supporting the recovery of the local economy.

"We want to send a strong signal to people that their District Council will support them in whatever way we can."

Whilst Mendip's 40 pay and display car parks are free, people should note that parking on roads, highways and pavements is still subject to penalties. These areas are the responsibility of Somerset County Council, whose civil enforcement officers (traffic wardens) returned to work on 1st June.

For more information about free parking at Mendip, plus exact car park locations, visit: Pay & Display Car Parks in Mendip or contact our Customer Services on 0300 303 8588.