LLANDOVERY town councillors have drawn up plans to ensure residents can enjoy free parking throughout the winter months.

They have approved a suggested scheme in which locals could receive parking discs allowing them two hours of free parking.

Now they are hoping the proposed scheme – aimed at encouraging more shoppers to come into the town – gets the backing of county councillors The move follows concerns over the perceived adverse effect parking fees are having on local businesses.

Traders claim the charges are deterring ‘casual’ shoppers and encouraging them to take their custom to the town’s Somerfield store where parking is free.

“People should have access to free parking in the town,” said Cllr Allan Stather. “This is something we need in order for small businesses to survive.

“If locals are getting two hours’ free parking and tourists are paying then I think that will strike the right kind of balance in this town.

“We’ve already lost the fruit and veg shop and there’s a real danger that other businesses may follow.”

Cllr Haydn Hudson said while he agreed with the scheme in principle he queried the definition of a “local resident”.

“What I’d like to know is, where exactly do we draw the line?” he asked.

Cllr Stather suggested the discs could simply be distributed to people who regularly parked in the town.

“Who’s going to come into Llandovery and pick up a disc if they are not going to use them on a regular basis?” he asked.

He added that the scheme would only last until Easter when the tourist season would begin.

“We want to be seen to be giving the business community what they are asking for,” he added.