New moves to increase the amount of time shoppers are allowed to park in Clacton town centre have been welcomed by traders as a big boost for business.

Limited waiting areas which were previously for one hour have been extended to two hours – and even three in some cases.

As part of the initiative, extra taxi parking and disabled parking spaces have also been created.

Tim Thomas, who owns Hoop Hair Salon in Rosemary Road, campaigned for the increased hours.

He said: “I can honestly say that we are already seeing the extra time for shoppers and customers having a positive impact on our business.”

Nick Turner, Tendring District Council cabinet member for environment and coast protection, said the idea was to improve the vitality and viability of the town centre after listening carefully to traders’ concerns and ideas.