IRVINE’S MP has praised the council for continuing to ensure free parking in the town centre.

North Ayrshire Council recently revealed a draft strategy for town centre car parking, which laid out plans to maintain free parking, instead of charging motorists.

This week, MP Brian Donohoe congratulated them.

He said: “I have always fought to keep North Ayrshire parking charge free, believing that it encourages people to come into our town centres to shop and spend time and money.

“Compared to South and East Ayrshire which, between them, over the three years 2010 to 2013 have milked hard-pressed Ayrshire motorists of just short of £4million then you might see why there is such a marked difference between the town centres of Kilmarnock and Ayr as compared to Irvine.

“Introducing parking charges in town centres is a sure fire way of ringing the death knell for high street traders and North Ayrshire Council are to be congratulated and commended for ensuring parking remains free throughout the area.

“Other Ayrshire councils could and should follow suit instead of using motorists to generate extra income.”