COACH parking is now free in Helmsley's long-stay car park thanks to a collaboration between the town's business group and Ryedale District Council (RDC).

As part of a year-long pilot scheme introduced by RDC, coaches are now able to park free of charge in the Cleveland Way car park, with the aim of encouraging visitors to stay for longer in the town, which was recently crowned Best Market Town in the Great British High Street Awards.

The new scheme is part of ongoing discussions around innovative parking strategies for the town, instigated by the Helmsley in Business group and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). Ideas are also being considered to help provide flexible parking solutions for residents and local shoppers.

Janet Waggott, RDC chief executive, said: “We are very pleased to create the opportunity to work differently in Helmsley. We look forward to piloting different ways of delivering services to make sure that we do what really matters for our residents, businesses and visitors to Ryedale.

"I hope that this pilot scheme and other possible trials in Helmsley will be successful and encourage innovative ways of working and a much closer working relationship between the district council, town and parish councils, businesses, volunteers and the local residents throughout our market towns and villages.”

Carolyn Frank, committee member of Helmsley in Business and owner of the town’s Libby Butler Jewellers, said: “We are delighted we can now offer free parking to coaches visiting our beautiful town.

"There is so much to do here, we want people to come and stay all day, and make the most of our wonderful facilities, attractions, shops and our many award-winning tea rooms, pubs and restaurants.

"By offering more flexible parking it will hopefully encourage more visitors, which is vital for the local economy – and we look forward to working with the council to introduce additional measures which will be of further benefit to local residents too.”

Emma Smailes, senior development manager for the Federation of Small Businesses, added: “We are delighted to have been able to support our members in Helmsley, working with RDC to bring about an innovative and exciting solution.”

For more information, go to visithelmsley.co.uk