THE city's park and ride services are to remain free indefinitely, the county council has confirmed, to continue the "positive impact" fewer cars on Salisbury's streets have had.

It comes as all but one of the city's car parks will end their "free after three" scheme - brought in to support businesses struggling in wake of last year's nerve agent attack - on April 23.

However, civic chiefs have said that those parking in Culver Street will still be able to do so for free.

Parking on a Sunday will also remain free all day.

Nevertheless, both the county and city authorities are pushing for motorists to take advantage of the city's five park and ride sites instead, by continuing to offer their use for no-charge.

Alistair Cunningham, executive director, said: "We’re very pleased with the positive strides Salisbury has taken in its recovery process and we feel now is the right time to make these changes.

“We hope people continue to use the free park and ride as there are a number of benefits, not least the positive impact it has on reducing pollution and congestion. It also allows easy access to our beautiful city which was recently named the best place to live by The Sunday Times.

“We will continue to do everything we can to assist and support Salisbury. We are looking forward to hosting the upcoming OVO cycle race and the Armed Forces National Event in the next few months.”

The free parking initiative was funded by Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council, with civic chiefs claiming it has helped to improve footfall in the city.

The cost of free parking will continue to be funded by both councils.

Wiltshire Council will also be looking to pilot various initiatives in Salisbury during the summer months including new technology to make parking more accessible and initiatives to promote sustainable transport.

Jeremy Nettle, leader of Salisbury City Council said: “We are delighted that 'free after three' will continue at Culver Street Car Park, which is only a short walk to the centre of Salisbury and that new technologies are being explored. Naturally we would welcome contactless payment parking machines.

“The continuation of five free park and ride sites, is very welcomed and will help those working in the City as well as Tourists who we wish to see spend more time exploring and experiencing our beautiful Salisbury.”

Robin McGowan, Salisbury BID Chief Executive, added: “The BID has been working closely with the council to evidence the impact of last year’s events on businesses, and we’re delighted Wiltshire Council are continuing to support our business members with these parking initiatives.

“Salisbury BID negotiated ‘free after 3pm’ parking in Culver Street car park with Wiltshire Council almost 5 years ago, and we’re pleased the council have agreed to continue to support this initiative, allowing visitors to come during the day and stay into the evening for free.

“As well as encouraging more people into the city, the free park & ride has really supported workers in the city, so it’s excellent news that this is continuing. We encourage more employees to take advantage of the free park & ride.”

“The BID fully support Wiltshire Council’s proposal to introduce new technology to make Salisbury’s car parks more accessible and to give visitors a better experience upon entering the city.”

“Salisbury is making positive steps in the recovery process and we’re looking forward to supporting businesses through a vibrant summer full of events.”

The new arrangements will be in place until further notice and more information can be found at http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/salisbury-amesbury More information about car parks in Salisbury can be found at http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/parking-salisbury