Plans to introduce new free and paid parking in Peebles were due to be approved at a meeting of Tweeddale area forum last night (Wednesday).
A report to be discussed included a proposal to introduce parking charges on weekdays in the Greenside and swimming pool car parks, however, the plans, for a one-year trial period, would also see the first four hours provided free of charge.
In addition, the plan, put forward by a sub-committee of councillors and community representatives, sought to introduce free parking for the first two hours in the Edinburgh Road car park, with charges remaining only on Saturdays.
The plan came about after it was found that some car parks were becoming full at certain times of the day, which resulted in an in-depth parking survey.
The cost of implementing the one-year trial scheme will be around £1,100.
Ahead of the meeting, Councillor Stuart Bell said: “The recommendations are a mechanism to try to ensure that there is always a turnover of spaces and that there is no overspill onto the streets, and that visitors will not be turned away because they cannot find a parking space.”
Mr Bell added: “I hope the recommendations are passed, and I hope the public understands that these have come about following careful consideration.”
Traders’ and community council representatives were involved in the formation of the proposal, which received the unanimous support of the sub-committee.