Free car parking in Midhurst to boost trade after large fire
The 400-year-old Angel Inn hotel was badly damaged in the fire
Free car parking is being offered in all car parks in Midhurst following last week's fire at an historic hotel.
Chichester District Council said the move until 16 April was to help support local businesses.
Around 30 people were evacuated from the 400-year-old Angel Inn in North Street on 16 March.
A Chichester District Council spokesperson said: "Midhurst businesses need our support more than ever and so we are encouraging people to shop locally in Midhurst wherever they can.
"The majority of businesses are open and North Street is accessible to pedestrians.
"Once parked, customers do not need to do anything — there is no need to take a ticket from the machine - signage will be in place in the car parks."
The council is also looking at potential alternative arrangements for its waste and recycling collections for both residents and businesses.
Arrangements have already been made to access properties on Lamberts Lane, but the council is still unable to reach some properties on North Street.
The council’s building control team to meet with the owners of the premises that have been damaged by the fire.
A spokesperson said: "The current position is that the hoarding installed will need to remain in place until such time as appropriate retention of the facades and associated structures are in place.
"We understand that the owners are currently engaging a structural engineer to advise on the design of any facade retention scheme, and it is hoped that this will be in place within a four-week period.
"However, this is subject to relevant approvals from the multiple agencies involved.
"As soon as the temporary appropriate stabilisation of the structures are in place then the road closure can be reviewed."