New parking restrictions are being introduced at the council offices in Western Way, Bury St Edmunds, in a bid to ensure spaces are available for members of the public.

From August 3, all users of the front car park at West Suffolk House will have to display a free parking ticket, and if someone stays for longer than 90 minutes they will be fined up to £70.

St Edmundsbury Borough Council, which is based at the building alongside Forest Heath District Council, Suffolk County Council, and the West Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group, said customer feedback suggested finding a space at the car park was often very difficult.

The restrictions will apply from 8am to 5pm, which the council feels will accommodate members of the public attending most meetings, and special provision is being made to ensure those going to development control committee meetings – which can go on for longer than 90 minutes – will not have to worry about time left on their ticket.

David Bowman, Forest Heath’s cabinet member for operations, said: “These new parking restrictions are not designed to target members of the public attending West Suffolk House, but to ensure parking spaces are made available for them.”

Visitors attending for any other meeting that might run over 90 minutes are advised to park in Olding Road.

Consultation over the changes is running until July 30.

For more information visit www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/Council/Consultations