A new parking charge is being introduced at two leisure centres in St Albans and Harpenden.

Previously, two hours of free parking had been offered at the locations, however, a £1 fee will now be charged to non-members.

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Following a review into St Albans City and District Council's policy to allow free parking for two hours, the charge is now being introduced.

According to a statement released by St Albans Liberal Democrats, the change in policy will help to maintain the car parks and avoid "inevitable cuts" to services elsewhere.

Chris White, leader of St Albans City and District Council, said: "Liberal Democrats value participation in sport and leisure activities and our aim is to ensure that the district council can continue to provide these services for the community, as well as others enjoyed by so many such as playgrounds and parks and museums.

“As a council we are required by law to produce a balanced budget each year, and it’s an unavoidable fact that our car parks need maintenance, cleaning, and lighting etc – which costs money.

"The provision of free car parking by local authorities is not common, nor is it aligned with the need to tackle the climate emergency by encouraging active travel.

“We believe the new parking strategy will help us to ensure that council services can be maintained going forward, especially in the current economic climate, as well as help to foster more sustainable travel.”