LINDSAY Whittle, Plaid Cymru AM for South Wales East, said the council’s decision to end free parking for the first two hours in Newport was disappointing.

“I fully understand the council’s difficult financial position but I really think they should be looking at the bigger picture.

“There is a significant cost to the council of allowing free parking but the city centre is struggling. Shoppers are heading for the Spytty retail park or to Cwmbran, where there are 3,000 free parking spaces or Cardiff, with its vast array of shops.

“The council needs to encourage people back into the city centre which will boost the economy and encourage more retailers to set up shop and perhaps others to return.

“Newport’s traders need help. Without action Newport will continue to struggle and more retailers may decide to shut up shop.”

South East Wales AM, William Graham, said: “It is vital the city council adopts every means of attracting shoppers to Newport. The city centre is not just in competition with other towns, but with the outer retail parks.”

Conservative AM for South East Wales, Mohammad Asghar said: “I fully support the Argus in its campaign. I understand the financial pressures the city council is under but believe the free parking scheme is a welcome initiative that will boost trade and deliver longterm benefits in attracting businesses to the city.”

Ed Townsend , Liberal Democrat councillor for St Julian’s, said: “I absolutely back the Keep City Parking Free campaign.

“From what I can tell the two-hour free parking has been a success. From the figures I’ve seen more cars have been coming to the city centre and traders were telling us it was helping pick up trade.

“We are in a position at the moment where we are waiting for the new city centre development and while we do that we need to be doing everything possible to encourage people to come into Newport city centre.”