FREE on-street parking in Halesowen is set to double in a bid to boost trade in the town centre.

The plan by Dudley Council bosses to make 70 free 45 minute spaces available follows a long campaign by the town’s chamber of trade.

Chairman Wayne Edwards and member Tony Billingham put forward proposals to the council at a series of meetings last year.

Mr Edwards said they were “delighted” with the council’s support which will see the number of free short stay spaces increased from 35 with the creation of 28 new spaces and the designation of another existing seven spaces as short stay.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for transportation, said: “From speaking to traders we know they really want short stay spaces to help boost their trade and to encourage shoppers to drop in to use the town. As a community council we are always ready to listen and we are confident these proposals will be welcomed across the board.”

The new proposed 45 minute spaces will go in across the town, including Great Cornbow, Summer Hill, Pool Road and Birmingham Road. As well brand new spaces in Birmingham Road, seven spaces which are currently designated for three hours, will be re-designated as short-stay.

The changes will be put out to consultation in the near future with a view to being put in place later this year.