DRIVERS are to get free parking in Holmfirth - starting this week.
Car park users will benefit from free parking after 4pm in council-owned long-stay car parks.
The car parks in Bridge Lane and Station Road, as well as the car park at the council offices, became free after 4pm on Monday.
This will bring them in line with other short-stay shopper's car parks which have been free after 4pm for the last 12 months.
The changes have been made after working closely with the Holme Valley Business Association and have been approved by ward councillors.
Greg Christofi, president of the Holme Valley Business Association, said: "We welcome the changes. This should encourage people into the town particularly late in the afternoon and bring benefits for our members.
"I look forward to working closely with the council over other initiatives to benefit Holmfirth further."
Kirklees Cabinet member for Highways, Clr Ann Denham, said: "I welcome the changes which have brought consistency to all the car parks in Holmfirth.
"These arrangements reflect the town's unique mix of tourist, residential and business uses.
"Free parking after 4pm will encourage residents returning from work, as well as other customers, to park and visit the town's shops and other facilities."
Meanwhile, Huddersfield Sports Centre users will benefit from the suggestion of a fellow customer for a new tariff rate for the 70-space car park.
Formerly people had a choice of one or two hours. They had to pay 60p for one hour or £1.20 for two hours.
The change will mean they will have the option of one and a half hours at a rate of 90p.
The changes, which came into effect yesterday, were agreed by Kirklees Council's Cabinet Committee for Regeneration in response to requests made by the sports centre management following the suggestion from a customer.
Clr Denham said: "We always welcome suggestions from the public. They use our services and are often in the best position to let us know how we can improve them.
"The council always listens and we try to respond to suggestions and comments where practical.
"This will also encourage people to use our excellent leisure facilities."
