Business leaders in Shrewsbury today said proposals which could see parking charges scrapped in the town centre in the evenings would provide a massive boost to the night-time economy.

This week it was revealed Shropshire Council is considering the move, which would see free parking at car parks from 6pm. At present people have to pay until 8pm or 8.30pm depending on which car park they use.

Today Shrewsbury Chamber of Commerce and Shop in the Loop said the move would boost businesses that open in the evening, such as restaurants and pubs.

Chamber chairman Peter Bettis said the proposal was “good news” for the town.

He said: “Starting at 6pm instead of 8.30pm would help the theatre and the evening economy. I hope that they would go along with it.”

John Hall, chairman of Shop in the Loop, said: “For the restaurants and pubs it would be excellent. If people come into town they would hopefully not see a need to get out and would stay in the town to use our excellent restaurants and those types of thing.”

Town mayor Alan Town send also welcomed the move. He said: “This would be a good thing. Shropshire Council, with the support of Shrewsbury Town Council, has been working on establishing clear policies about the night-time economy. It seems illogical if the parking doesn’t assist it.

“This would make people feel more relaxed and perhaps ready to stay in the town and hopefully enjoy the tremendous programme that’s on offer at the Theatre Severn as well as elsewhere in the town.

“We have such a rich variety of activities, including all the events of the strong summer season as well.”

The proposal for free evening parking is being considered by Shropshire Council, which is reviewing parking fees county-wide.

This week Shropshire councillor Martin Taylor-Smith, cabinet member for transport, said the authority was proposing to make parking in Shrewsbury free after 6pm. A report outlining proposals would be considered in June and a public consultation would be carried out, the council said.

By John Kirk