Islanders have been invited to share their views on an Isle of Wight Council parking proposal that could help Newport businesses and visitors to the town.

The council has launched a consultation on a proposal which would change a number of 'limited waiting' bays on the east side of Newport's Union Street to 'Pay & Display' bays.

Between 8am and 6pm, drivers would be charged £1.20 for a half an hour stay, £2.35 for a stay up to one hour and £4.70 for a stay lasting between one and two hours.

The bays would also be open every evening between 6pm and 8am, with £2 being charged per visit.

Customers would pay for stays using a 'Pay by Phone' method.

A council spokesperson said: "The council’s corporate plan provides for it to improve the economic, social, and environmental well-being of the Island and the decision to introduce two hours parking in Union Street, undertaken with local member engagement will provide for additional dwell time in the town to assist with Newport’s post Covid economic recovery.

"A longer duration of stay, offering at least two hours chargeable parking can be found in the parking areas behind the 30 min/rapid turnover of spaces in St James St (Chapel St Car Park and New Street.)

"Union St is anomalous in that it currently offers one hour free parking. The objective is to provide consistency with New Street and offer two hour chargeable parking."

County Hall's latest Annual Parking Report states: "Parking management and enforcement are an important part of our daily lives.

"Proper parking helps reduce congestion, improve road safety, assists the local economy, and encourages residents to use sustainable methods of transport.

"Our aim is to provide a service and consistent approach to all elements of parking management that will support the local community, while proving beneficial to residents, tourists, and businesses."

The consultation closes on November 1 and can be found online at: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=B8c3UX1ZIEqjiUyRWpSgRd9-KaM7ZCdFpmcIqOGU1YBUQzkyQ1NHMTBSMkdRNVdFT1Q4MVMzMk9QNi4u&route=shorturl.