COUNCILLORS have given the go-ahead to a parking initiative across the borough, in the run up to the festive period.

Starting on Saturday, November 18 parking will be 'Free after three' in all council-owned car parks and on street locations between Monday to Saturday. (Parking is already free all day on Sundays.)

The scheme, which runs until January 17, 2018, aims to help shoppers and visitors to the area save on their costs, while providing a boost to businesses by encouraging more people to the borough's town centres and villages.

The start of the initiative coincides with the big Christmas lights switch-on in Altrincham, which takes place in the Stamford Quarter.

In April, large increases in car parking charges were introduced which prompted regeneration body, the Altrincham Plan Working Group, to voice fears that trade would be hit.

Parking charges went up from 20p to 70p for 30 minutes and from 50p to £1.50 for two hours.

Councillor David Hopps, executive member for housing and strategic planning, said of the 'Free after three' initiative: “The council is committed to supporting all our town centres, and has invested significantly to improve the public realm, reduce vacancy rates and support private sector investment.

"The success of this can be seen in how busy and vibrant the town centres are now. The run up to the festive period is a critical trading time for many businesses, and the 'Free after three' is another example of our support.

"I would encourage local people and those from outside of Trafford to take advantage of this and sample what our town centres have to offer.”

The offer will be advertised at pay and display machines across the borough on streets and in council-owned car parks.