Groups and volunteers in the community carrying out deliveries of items medication and other vital goods during the COVID-19 crisis need to be included in free car parking concessions made by the council - one local member has stated.

Pembrokeshire County Council agreed to waive charges in its car parks for NHS, health and social care workers from last Thursday, (April 2).

The Authority’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Licensing and Major Events, Clr. Phil Baker, said: “We are very aware that the car parks provide our NHS, health and social care workers with access to essential services such as food and medical supplies.

“The Council will, from today, waive car park fees for this group of workers and this will remain in place during the current lockdown.

“These critical workers will be encouraged to display supporting evidence in their windscreen, such as photocopies of their work pass - with any sensitive information removed - or a letter of evidence from their employer as their parking permit.”

Clr. Baker said the decision would be reviewed in line with Welsh and UK Government guidelines.

However, one county councillor who has welcomed the decision, feels the offer needs to go further.

Clr. Michael Williams who represents Tenby’s North ward has written to the Authority’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Licensing and Major Events, along with Darren Thomas PCC’s Head of infrastructure and help others out there in the community working whilst the COVID-19 crisis continues.

“There are many groups doing voluntary work such as deliveries of groceries, medication and other vital goods and equipment who are not able to make use of this concession,” explained Clr. Williams.

“Bearing in mind the almost total shutdown of the use of motor vehicles, I suggest that car parks should be free of charge for the duration of this emergency.

“I don’t believe that this extended concession would encourage the general public to use their vehicles at this time, as to do so would be in contravention of current legislation.

“This would be of huge help for those who are contributing to the community effort.

“The civil enforcement staff I am sure could be of great assistance supporting other critical services within the authority,” he added.