NEW pay-and-display charges will be introduced by the council in two car parks in Bookham from Monday.
Mole Valley District Council will introduce its new "penny a minute" rate at the Lower Road car park, where those staying longer than an hour can pay in increments of 5p for five minutes.
Charges will appear at Lower Shott car park for the first time, where there will be a 30p-for-30-minutes option for those wanting to use the shops on the adjacent parade.
The "penny a minute" rate will also be available at Lower Shott.
District council leader Chris Townsend said the charges in Lower Shott have been introduced to appease shop owners who have complained of vehicles outstaying their welcome.
"Lower Shott traders told us that many of the spaces in the car park were being taken up by people who leave their cars there all day, making it more difficult for shoppers to access their businesses," he said.
"We want to support these important local businesses by introducing pay-and-display parking, while also bringing the car park in line with all of our other car parks, which are pay and display."
He continued: "We hope the changes will help people to access Bookham's shops and other businesses more easily.
"Introducing the 30p charge will hopefully encourage those wanting to 'pop and shop' for a very low fee. They will also have the security of parking in a safe car park, rather than on the road."
