FREE late afternoon car parking looks set to be introduced in Kidderminster in a bid to reduce the impact of the town's parking crisis.

The plan revealed by Wyre Forest District Council will spread the demand for spaces at a time when Kidderminster faces a loss of more than 850 because of redevelopment and the Kidderminster College move.

Council leader Mike Oborski said: "We want to encourage the use of car parks at times when they are not normally well used, which will spread the load and offer choice for motorists. We hope to be able to table firm proposals very shortly."

There are currently 3,670 spaces but when the Market Street park closes early next month in preparation for the college move to the site the figure will fall to 3,120.

The loss of the Pitts Lane surface site in the redevelopment could bring the number down to 2,815 from mid-October, a cut described by Mr Oborski as "essential" if phases two and three are to begin in October 2002 in order to allow Christmas trading.

The situation will improve when, in January, the figure rises to 3,315 with the opening of the new B&Q store, and two months later the Tesco development will mean 3,915 spaces become available.

By Christmas 2002 the council predicts a total of 4,315 spaces - an increase of 17 per cent on the existing figure.

Mr Oborski added: "We have no delusions about the difficulties which now face motorists and traders and will do everything we can to alleviate the difficulties.

"We are absolutely determined to deliver a first rate town centre for Kidderminster for the 21st century."