WEEKEND shoppers can continue to park for free for the next two years — after Bolton Council extended the popular scheme.

The free parking initiative — which means shoppers can park for free on weekends and bank holidays at three town centre multi-storey car parks — was first introduced in May, 2013 and will now be continued until at least May, 2017.

The council is investing a further £1 million of one-off funding in the scheme which has seen the number of cars parking at the NCP car parks more than double at weekends.

Council leader Cllr Cliff Morris said: “Free parking makes it easier for people to come into town and I’m really pleased to announce that we’re extending it.

“This is a way of us supporting our retailers to encourage shoppers to come into Bolton town centre and spend their money here.

“Clearly the figures show that the free parking scheme has been a success, and the feedback we’ve had from retailers is that it has helped boost sales.”

In 2012, the three car parks — Topp Way, Deane Road and The Octagon — welcomed 85,873 visitors, compared to a figure of 205,289 for the same period over the past 12 months.

Retail bosses have praised the council’s decision to extend the free parking scheme.

Marks and Spencer Bolton store manager, Grant Bramwell, added: “I’m delighted to see that Bolton Council has extended free car parking places for a further two years.

“This move will really encourage shoppers back into the town centre and will also support local business and traders in the town.”

NCP business manager, Adie Adams, said: “We’re delighted to see that each year the amount of people benefiting from this scheme is increasing, it shows that the word is spreading and helps encourage people to visit Bolton.

“NCP continues to fully support the council and their commitment to the growth of the town. We share their optimism and excitement for the future and enjoy being part of a great partnership.”

Nikki Wilson-Cook, manager of the Market Place shopping centre, added: “I think it is all about making things as easy as possible for people coming to the town centre and I fully support the council’s offer.

“We recognise parking is key to bringing in more shoppers and that is why at the Market Place we give people using our car parks the first 90 minutes for free.

“It is about populating the town, if other towns like Wigan and Preston charge for their parking and Bolton doesn’t, then where are you going to go?”