A scheme to bring free parking to Redbridge in an effort to boost trade has started.

Redbridge Council began rolling out the scheme at its on-street pay and display bays last week, with 30 minutes free everywhere except Ilford Town Centre, where there will be 20 minutes free.

Councillor Baldesh Nijjar, cabinet member for environment, said: “We promised residents and businesses that we would make changes to ensure parking was a cheaper and simpler affair in the borough and we are doing just that.

“We want to encourage people to use our shops and local businesses and we know that parking fees can be the difference between someone making the journey to their local business or choosing to take their money elsewhere. With that in mind we’re happy to make these changes.”

Tariffs on machines will be changed over the next few weeks.

The council said motorists would still need to get a ticket from a machine – taking into account the free period – or face a penalty charge.

The RingGo pay by phone service is expected to be available at a later date.

Visit www.redbridge.gov.uk/parking for more details.