Free parking in Cannock and Hednesford to boost trade

Plans to introduce 23 free bays in the centre of Cannock were approved at a meeting while an extension to free parking has been agreed for Hednesford and will be introduced by Christmas to encourage more short-stay shoppers. The Cannock bays are expected to come into use in April next year following a consultation.

The locations lined up for Cannock are opposite the library in Manor Avenue, near the bus depot in Stafford Road and adjacent to Morrison's in Mill Street. The aim is to boost business in the town centre. The order will apply from 8am to 6pm from Monday to Saturday.

Traders in Hednesford asked for the current 20-minute on-street parking limit in Market Street to be extended. The proposal was given the thumbs-up in July and is currently out to public consultation.

Brereton and Ravenhill councillor Alan Dudson said: "Every bit of help we can give to shops and businesses is useful to them. They need this."

Cannock Chase Council leader George Adamson, commenting on the plans for Cannock as they were passed at a meeting last night, said: "Our town centres are struggling. We need more free parking bays.

"I think it's an excellent idea and hopefully will bring more people into the town."