A lower parking rates scheme that was first introduced last Christmas in 25 towns across NI is to be reintroduced as part of a six-month pilot.

A total of 93 car parks in 25 towns will charge £1 for five hours parking for six months from 12 April, with the scheme subject to ongoing assessment.

Transport Minister, Danny Kennedy said: "Local retailers across Northern Ireland have told me that they are continuing to operate in a challenging environment. That was one of the main reasons why I introduced a five hours parking for £1 over the Christmas and New Year period.

"The scheme was welcomed by traders and this extensive pilot project will inform my Departments future policy. The five hours parking for £1 pilot tariff will support both the local economy and retailers in their efforts to encourage more shoppers back into towns and cities across Northern Ireland."

The new tariff will be introduced from 12 April 2014 and will apply to car parks in 25 towns and cities, excluding Belfast, that have a tariff of 30p or more per hour. Drivers will still be able pay for normal tariffs under £1 in each car park and normal tariffs over five hours still apply.

(MH/JP)