SIR — I am responding to the letter from Mr and Mrs Styles headed "Give residents parking permits" (Free Press January 11).

I am very pleased to be able to confirm that as of April 1, residents of West Somerset will be able to purchase an annual parking permit giving them the opportunity of reducing their parking costs in many car parks.

The scheme which myself and officers of the council have been working on will address concerns in their letter.

The proposal is to offer a "shoppers' clock" which would promote the use of local shops by reducing parking costs.

This in turn will help support local businesses in what as we know are very difficult times for a lot of businesses.

The permit will also be a benefit to groups such as dog walkers and anglers in the area.

The permit will be valid in the following car parks -Alexandra Road, Clanville, Quay West, Warren Road Upper and North Road in Minehead, Dunster Steep , Central Porlock, Anchor Street West Pier and Market Street in Watchet, Kilve Beach and Killick Way, Williton.

The permit will cost £30 annually, equivalent to 60p per week, will be valid for up to two hours' parking and will be number plate assigned.

This scheme is run by other district councils and the residents totally embrace it. The West Somerset scheme will initially be a trial for 12 months.

So if you value the ability to park and make visits to support the local shops, or the ability to park near the beach over the winter months to walk your dog, then we are introducing a scheme just for you.

So I urge you to apply now in one of the following ways - by email to [email protected]">[email protected], by phone on 01984 635350, online at http://www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/permits">www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk/permits or in person at any of our offices.

Posters will soon appear in those car parks where the permits will be valid. Please do not keep this to yourselves and inform your family and friends.

Cllr Karen Mills,

Porlock and District Ward,

West Somerset Council.