ALL car parks have been made free for key workers, essential shopping and community volunteers by Craven District Council.

The temporary lifting of charges, in response to the coronavirus, will last until April 14 when it will be reviewed, says the council.

Bays for motorhomes should not be used, no group activities are allowed, and people are being asked to be sensible, keep away from each other and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly to beauty spots.

Council leader, Cllr Richard Foster, said: “We want to ensure that our residents can drive for essential purposes and park close to their destination when they absolutely need to.

“We would ask residents to avoid all non-essential travel, and please do not travel to beauty spots and local attractions, or rights of way. Of course we will very much welcome visitors back once restrictions are lifted.”

Parking enforcement is also being relaxed across North Yorkshire to support key workers and people who are working from home or self-isolating. It will apply to both on-street parking, which is managed by North Yorkshire County Council, and off-street parking, which is managed by district and borough councils.

Instead, enforcement will focus on unsafe or obstructive parking.