Drivers will be able to park for free in a number of town centre car parks from the start of next month.

There will be no charge for drivers wanting to leave their vehicles in 10 car parks across Medway from 9am on Mondays.

This will start from Monday, April 3, and the car parks included are: The Brook and St John’s in Chatham, Blue Boar Lane and the Cathedral in Rochester, Littlewoods and Balmoral Gardens in Gillingham, Longley Road and Cricketers in Rainham and Temple Street and Commercial Road in Strood.

The initiative was announced at Medway Council’s budget setting meeting last month.

Leader of Medway Council, Cllr Alan Jarrett, said: “We are committed to supporting local businesses and this free parking initiative aims to encourage more people to visit our high streets.

"Motorists do not need to do anything to use the free parking. Simply park and enjoy the wide variety of shops on offer in our town centres."

Tim Aker, development manager for the federation of small businesses in Kent and Medway, said: "Introducing these periods of free parking will help small businesses on the high street.

"Footfall matters to independent retailers and those businesses struggling with the increasing cost of doing business.

"We are aware of the financial pressures councils are under, and this move demonstrates Medway Council’s commitment to its high streets and small businesses."