A new discounted parking scheme for permit holders has been announced at two central Watford car parks to remedy the lack of on-street spaces.

CitiPark, the operator of both Sutton and Church Street car parks, has agreed to let CPZ (controlled parking zone) permit holders use the facilities between 6pm and 8am for just £2.

Cllr Rabi Martins, who first floated the idea of utilising the underused space following a consultation with residents in CPZ areas, said: “Many residents asked to be able to use the car parks at night without having to pay the standard rate because of a lack of space in their local parking zones.

“As these car parks normally have free spaces at night, the council was able to negotiate a special rate of just £2 per night for CPZ permit holders.

“This has been possible largely because CitiPark now has new number plate recognition equipment  which will enable the system to identify permit holders from CPZ zones A, B, C, E or G, which are eligible to use the car parks between 6pm and 8am at the special discounted rate."

Deputy mayor Peter Taylor added: "Clearly we cannot generate any extra on-road parking but by enabling this overnight use of under-utilised space in our car parks we will ease the problem for residents. It will also ensure safe and secure parking.

“Our town is fortunate to have a company which has won the highest award in the industry for its safer environment managing our car parks. I am especially pleased that CitiPark has cooperated with us to provide this solution.

“It is a win-win for the residents, the town and the company.”