Douglas Council scraps free disabled parking

Douglas Borough Council is to scrap free disabled parking in two Isle of Man car parks, it has been announced.

The plans come into force on 1 June when the council takes over the Chester Street and Drumgold Street car parks in the island's capital.

A council spokesman said charges will increase for all users - the cost of a space for up to one hour will rise by 30p, from £1.50 to £1.80.

The cost of a two-hour space will go up 40p, from £2.00 to £2.40.

The changes have been brought in as the council takes over the car parks from previous operators, the Department of Infrastructure.

Councillor Ritchie McNicholl said it is "a practical demonstration of the advantages of vesting local authorities with the powers to deliver local services at a local level".