Ilford shoppers could start to pay just “30p for 30 minutes” parking across the borough, according to one Lib Dem cabinet member.

Cllr Shoaib Patel will put forward the proposals to the environment committee on Wednesday evening and then the cabinet next week.

If Cllr Patel is successful he hopes to launch the scheme across Redbridge – including Ilford town centre - on December 2, so Christmas shoppers can benefit.

Ahead of the environment committee meeting, he said: “My ’30:30’ deal provides more time for people to visit our shops for the cheapest pay-and-display charge of 30p, as well as significantly reducing the cost of on-street parking in Ilford.

“We are working hard to get a trial of this new charge introduced in time for Christmas.”

Cllr Ian Bond, the deputy council leader, believes Redbridge council can afford it and is encouraged by the plan.

“We know that both government and local businesses are keen for us to support our high streets, and we hope that this proposal will be of real help,” said Cllr Bond.

“We think that extending the parking period for short-term shopping would, over a full year, cost the Council about £370,000, which we can afford.”