WARRINGTON Borough Council is being urged to consider introducing a parking scheme which would allow motorists to park in the town centre for free for three hours.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has written to council leaders in Greater Manchester and Cheshire asking them to assess the need for a free car parking strategy similar to the one introduced by Rochdale Council last May.

It has reportedly boosted footfall in the borough by around a third, providing a 'welcome shot in the arm' for retailers.

FSB is now asking other authorities, including Warrington, to follow Rochdale's 'lead' and consider piloting similar schemes to ascertain whether the effect is similar.

Simon Edmondson, FSB's regional chairman for Manchester and north Cheshire, said: "There's plenty of evidence to show car parking charges hurt traders and the figures from Rochdale speak for themselves.

"While we know some councils already operate differing forms of parking concessions, FSB believes the 'first three for free' is the best.

"The format prevents all-day parking but allows plenty of time for shoppers to go about their business without having to rush.

"We have written to all councils in Greater Manchester and Cheshire asking them to take a closer look at Rochdale's bold lead.

"While I totally understand local authority budgets are being squeezed, I would say there's an economic argument that vibrant town centres attract new businesses to the area, encourage spending, create jobs and ultimately have a snowball effect on regeneration."

The council currently controls less than ten per cent of parking in Warrington town centre.

But it has responded to the calls from the business support organisation.

A spokesman said: "Although we would hope for charges to be kept to a minimum there is a need for costs to be covered by car park operators, including the council.

"There are many factors which influence a choice of destination for shopping and entertainment other than parking charges.

"Warrington has a great choice of shops and places to eat and drink and that offering is going to be even better in the future after the council's investment in major town centre developments."