SHOPPERS will be able to use on-street parking in Stroud town centre from Friday.

The easing of parking restrictions follows a review involving Stroud Town Council, Stroud District Council, Gloucestershire County Council and Stroud and District Chamber of Trade.

"With the changing of restrictions by the government it made sense for us to review our procedures for the town centre," said Stroud Town Mayor Kevin Cranston.

"This is very much an ongoing process as we constantly look at appropriate restrictions to ensure the safety of everyone who uses our town.

"We have listened to requests from the traders who felt that the loss of on-street parking was having an adverse effect on trade and we hope that the changes will make a positive difference, although there are other factors causing negative impacts on town centres.

"We would, however, ask shoppers to use the provided car parks if they can, and be courteous to leave the on-street parking for those who need it most."

The car parks in Brunel Mall and London Road are free after 3pm.

The temporary closure of London Road to traffic remains in place to reduce the amount of through traffic and provide space for the Farmers’ Market to spread out.

Tony Davey, Chair of the Chamber, welcomed the change and added that the temporary closure of London Road was important to the town's traders.

"On-street parking was closed at a time when customers had to queue to get into shops. Today, businesses can safely allow more people into their businesses and the customers now wear face coverings," said Mr Davey.

"Add to that the fact many customers are “on a mission” when they visit towns - so less browsing and more in-and-out, so a faster turn-around.

"It is also important that by continuing the temporary closure of London Road we can support the safer delivery of the Farmers' Market, which brings both much needed visitors and money into our local economy."

Councillor Doina Cornell, SDC's Leader, said: "We will do all we can to help people `shop local' and get our high streets busy once again, and these measures will certainly help in Stroud town centre."

Councillor Cranston said: "We are constantly reviewing what we can do to support a vibrant town economy. It would be interesting to hear other ideas for helping to encourage people back into our shops, as reduced trade is not just a local problem.

"Finally I would add that a second lockdown would do more harm than anything else so please keep up with social distancing, wear a mask when required and keep washing your hands ”