CAR PARKING charges have been scrapped across Romsey and Test Valley in a bid to help residents while the borough remains in Tier 4.

For the third time this year, Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) revealed they would suspend parking fees in all of their car parks, which started on Boxing Day [December 26], after health secretary Matt Hancock announced most of Hampshire would be plunged into the Stay at Home category.

Romsey, along with more of the south east and parts of the south west, was thrown into Tier 4 to help battle the growing number of coronavirus cases.

It comes after a new coronavirus variant was believed to be responsible for increasing infection numbers to record high levels.

However, the new tier does not apply to the New Forest - which has been moved into Tier 3 instead.

Deputy leader of TVBC, Cllr Nick Adams-King, said the frozen fees would remain while the new restrictions are in place.

He said: "The suspension started on Saturday, December 26, although as Bank Holiday parking is free, in effect the first day from which the suspension practically applies is today [December 29].

"I hope lifting charges once more will ensure those collecting essential supplies for themselves and others can do so speedily and safely, will ensure adequate parking for those who live in and around the town centres and who are confined to their homes."

The next tier review will be on Wednesday [December 30], which could see some areas of England moved into toughed restrictions.

As reported, some angry drivers slammed TVBC for scrapping parking fees, claiming it was “a nightmare” to find a parking space after charges were ditched to help people during the first and second lockdown.

Residents vented their anger on the Advertiser’s Facebook page over the charges being put on ice, with some believing it made it more difficult to park.

But, TVBC reinstated parking charges on December 10 - eight days after the lockdown was lifted.