Horsham Rural City Council has announced that parking will be free in central Horsham for the next six months.
The decision, resolved at Monday night's December Council Meeting, aims to facilitate a comprehensive review of parking meter operations within the city.
Mayor Cr Ian Ross said the initiative, effective immediately, would provide free parking during the festive season and beyond.
"We have listened to feedback from our community," he said.
"We want our residents to have easy access to parking in the city centre, which in turn supports our local businesses.
"Not having to put money into meters will make it more convenient for people to shop, dine, and enjoy the festive season in Horsham," Cr Ross said.
Signage will be placed on parking meters.
App users will be notified of the change and HRCC is now working with the supplier Blinkay to disable the payment function.
Cr Ross said time limits as indicated by zoned signage would still apply and be enforced to ensure sufficient turnover of parking bays.
"This measure is crucial to maintaining access for customers to retail businesses in the city," Cr Ross said.
