BUSINESSES are calling for free parking to be introduced in Paisley in a bid to attract shoppers back into the town centre.

Paisley First, the town’s business improvement district, has launched its Free for Three campaign, which is urging Renfrewshire Council to introduce free parking for three hours each day.

Businesses feel this will allow visitors time to shop, while stopping commuters parking for the entire day while travelling elsewhere.

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It comes after the council decided to u-turn on proposals to introduce parking charges in Johnstone and Renfrew town centres earlier this year.

Graeme McGowan, Paisley First chairman, said: “The council’s decision not to introduce parking charges in Johnstone and Renfrew was welcome.

Businesses in Paisley are now asking for matching assistance by adjusting parking charges to encourage customers to come into Paisley town centre.

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“We believe Free for Three is the way forward.”

Paisley First has written to Renfrewshire Council calling for the Free for Three scheme to be introduced.

A council spokesman said: “We all want to see Paisley town centre thriving and will discuss the points Paisley First raise at our next meeting with them.”