SHOPPERS and workers visiting Bishop Auckland will have to pay to park their cars in the town centre from Monday.

The charges follow months of wrangling between Wear Valley District Council and traders, who had warned that the charges scheme would drive customers away.

More than 1,000 people signed a petition in January urging the council to offer an hour's free parking, but that was rejected.

A compromise reached in March means that some businesses will offer refunds to customers who spend more than £10, with outlets taking part displaying a symbol in their windows.

The council says the pay and display system will ease congestion in the town centre.

Tariffs for North Bondgate, Newgate Centre, Victoria Avenue and Kingsway/South Church Road car parks will be 50p for two hours and £1.50 for three hours.

Long-stay car park fees will be £2 per day or £7 per week, although a weekly permit does not guarantee a parking space. This applies to Tenters Street, South Terrace and Kingsway (Castle Chare) car parks. Long-stay parking is available next to the Asda store.

A leaflet showing the car parks is available from council buildings, tourist information centres, libraries and some shops.