PARKING charges for key workers and those making essential journeys have been scrapped at all council-controlled car parks in St Helens.

To assist key workers during the coronavirus lockdown, all car parks controlled by St Helens Council will be free of charge from Saturday, March 28, until further notice.

On-street pay and display bays will also be free of charge.

The parking charges will also be waived to those who are out making essential journeys, such as to collect food and medicine for the vulnerable and the elderly.

Cllr Andy Bowden, cabinet member for environmental services, said: “We want to support people who are working hard to protect and support our communities as best we can and this will hopefully be seen as a positive step for those who still need to travel to work – and anyone having to make essential journeys, such as collecting food and medicine.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to remind residents that government guidelines on travelling is that it must only be done if absolutely necessary.

“This is a clear message which will protect our precious NHS and save lives.”

Click here for a list of council-controlled car parks.