Banbury's evening parking charges dropped

Evening parking charges in Banbury are being cancelled after residents and traders complained.

Cherwell District Council said the change would come into effect in three months' time.

While the flat fee from 18:00 has been removed, daytime charges will now apply until 19:00.

Deputy Leader George Reynolds said: "Some people would like us to have gone further, but given the financially challenging times, it wasn't possible."

He added: "We were aware that the introduction of charges and increases in fees were never going to be popular.

'Grace period'

"But, we have kept to our promise, reviewed them ahead of schedule and have now agreed to make changes."

Blue badge holders will receive free parking within designated disabled bays.

There will also be a 10-minute "grace period" for drivers to buy a ticket and fines will be discounted by 50% when paid within 14 days.

Meanwhile drivers in Bicester Town Centre will have ticket prices reduced by 10p per hour to take into account disruptions caused by redevelopment works.

Sunday and bank holiday parking charges are to be reduced to £1 all day.