Now that some of the lockdown restrictions have been lifted, people are beginning to make use of Cheltenham's car parks again.

Cllr Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for development and safety, says: "For most customers parking charges apply as normal and we would encourage people to use contactless payment if possible to reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission. We would also ask people to respect social distancing protocols by keeping at least 2m from other customers.

"This work to bring car parking back into business is part of the council's recovery plan for Cheltenham.

"We have been pleased to offer our key and NHS workers the use of a number of our car parks without charge during these unprecedented times. Whilst the registration process for key workers is now closed, the national scheme for NHS staff remains operational across all our car parks (with the exception of Regent Arcade Car Park). NHS staff wishing to use CBC Car Parks should display the permit available from their employer."

The Regent Arcade car park will reopen at 7am on Monday 15 June in conjunction with the Regent Arcade and non-essential retail reopening.

The car park has been redecorated and new notices reminding users about social distancing measures are on display. Whilst the pay on foot machines continue to accept cash, users are encouraged to make use of the contactless payment or the 'tap & go' facility. Officers will be on hand to offer help and guidance and the cleaning regime includes regular cleansing of payment terminals.

The council's parking team will be working with the Regent Arcade to manage capacity and limit traffic if necessary.

For a temporary period the car park will close at the earlier time of 7.30pm.

Lighting improvement works at St James Street car park have now recommenced. Whilst work continues there will be a reduced number of available spaces and it is scheduled to be completed in early July 2020.

For further information about car parking around the borough, please visit the council's webpages.