OSWESTRY'S councillors will be asked to consider making the car parks managed by the town council free during the same grace period operated by Shropshire.

Last month, Shropshire Council confirmed it will be making the majority of its car parks across the county free from April 12-25 to boost small businesses, following the lifting of restrictions.

The Chamber of Commerce has written to Oswestry town clerk Arren Roberts to request that the council follow suit, including the town's Central Car Park, and that request has been put in front of Wednesday's finance and general purposes meeting.

The item notice says: "Elected Members will be aware that Shropshire Council has announced that parking will be free from 8am to 6pm in all Shropshire Council car parks from April 12-25, once non-essential shops and personal care providers reopen, and pubs and restaurants are able to serve customers outdoors.

"They also note that if the reopening date moves from April 12, the dates of this offer will be amended.

"The Chamber of Commerce has written to the town clerk to request that Oswestry Town Council follows the same policy in its operated car parks, this is supported by the Oswestry BID.

"Previous Shropshire Council free parking initiatives have caused confusion for shoppers and visitors. In considering the request, elected Members will also be mindful of the risk of starting a precedent, the opportunity cost and of the financial impact on the Council's budget.

"Members are asked to note that Oswestry Town Council has not received any financial support during the Covid outbreak."

They will be discussing the request at Wednesday meeting, which starts at 7pm.

Other items on the agenda include discussion and consideration of applications to the large grant scheme for financial assistance from three groups: The Marches School, Parkinsons in the Marches and U&I Counselling.

In the private session, there are two items concerning employment, including Oswestry Town Council's human resources service level agreement.

Anyone wishing to take part in the meet can do so over Zoom at ID: 848 7930 2338.