Businesses have welcomed the introduction of thirty minutes free parking in a high street after a long campaign.

Owners of the shops in High Road, Woodford Green had been putting pressure on Redbridge council to make Derby Road car park free to boost footfall in the area.

This was ultimately rejected by the council but they did agree to expand free on-street parking to the shopping parade.

The move is under consultation but it is widely believed it was will not be met with objection.

It was announced in a response to a letter from MP Iain Duncan Smith who supported the campaign.

Director of environment at Redbridge council Simon Barry said: “Unfortunately the free 30 minute session only applies to on-street parking spaces so would not be applicable in Derby road car park.

“However, I am pleased to advise to you that we have recently consulted businesses in the area who have in the majority agreed to proposals to introduce pay and display parking spaces in the High Road, Derby Road and St Alban’s Road akin to that available in George Lane.

"We will now seek the views of local Ward Councillors before progressing with the scheme."

Chingford and Woodford Green MP Iain Duncan Smith called the decision “great news”.

He said: “I very much welcome the council’s action on this having listened to concerns of local businesses, limiting competition from George Lane and increasing signage to parking in the area.”

Cert Halil, owner of Whistle ‘n’ Flute dry cleaners on the High Road had previously said businesses had been suffering since nearby George Lane received free parking.

"It is fantastic", he said.

"We all wanted it for so long and they have finally done it. We are happy but we could be happier.

"Ideally we would want the car park to be free but that is clearly making too much money for the council.

"It shows if you stick together you can make it work.

"We will wait till this comes in and then keep pushing for the car park to be free as well."