In its effort to support residents through the cost-of-living crisis, Barking and Dagenham Council has announced that residents will soon be able to park in council-owned car parks for free for up to two hours - an increase from the current one hour stay.

Drivers will also be able to park at secondary shopping parades (on street) at existing and future pay-by-phone locations for free for one hour - this is an increase from the current 30-minute offer.

The decision was confirmed at last month’s Cabinet meeting.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety: “Residents are always at the forefront of everything we do, and we know that times are hard with prices rising for everything.

“I’m pleased that we can now offer free parking for our residents and visitors for a prolonged period of time. This means people can now go shopping, and access other local amenities and services without having to worry about paying for parking during this period. This will also be a boost to local businesses.”

To benefit from the free parking sessions, drivers must be registered via PayByPhone and this can be done on the PayByPhone App or by calling 020 7005 0055.

In addition, households within future Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) will be given 10 free visitor parking sessions in the first year which will mean family and friends can catch up without having to pay.

The improved free parking offers will begin later this year and the date will be announced by the council in coming weeks.