TRADERS are breathing a sigh of relief after a free parking policy is set to continue until early next year.

Charges were scrapped at Hildyard Row car park at White Shops in Catterick Garrison when major road improvement works resulted in a decline in business.

The roadworks outside the row of shops meant short stay parking spaces were lost.

Richmondshire District Council, who implemented the policy a year ago, has now extended free parking until March.

Councillor Yvonne Peacock, council leader, said: “We introduced free parking at our Hildyard Row car park in response to concerns from the local community.

“We will be leaving that in place until next March to help businesses over the busy Christmas period – and give them and shoppers certainty during this time.”