Here's why all parking charges in Portsmouth have been suspended

Amid the coronavirus outbreak the city council has suspended all paid for parking including permitted zones, on-street parking and in council car parks.

It is hoped this will free up spaces for emergency vehicles and key workers if other residents are able to spread out, as well as allow council staff to focus on other critical services.

Portsmouth City Council leader, Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, said: 'It is important that we all work together to support our key workers. We will suspend the parking charges and we need you to stay at home and only make essential journeys. And when making those journeys remember the importance of social distancing.

'I would also like to encourage those that have a commercial vehicle that is not your primary way of travelling to park it within the council car parks to reduce the pressure on residential parking.

'This will means more key workers will be able to find a space when they come home late at night. When this has all ended, we will make sure everyone is informed when they should collect their vehicle.

'As always during this time we urge everyone to follow the latest government advice and check the council website for the latest local advice.'

Parking enforcement teams will continue to stop illegal parking on yellow lines that prevents access for emergency services or essential home deliveries. Disabled parking and electric charging bays will also be enforced.

As previously reported permit holders will be refunded in accordance to the length of the suspension.

The suspension of paid for parking has come into effect immediately.