Shoppers in Berwick could soon see 25 more free car parking spaces in the town, thanks to new proposals.

The changes follow discussions between Berwick North councillor Catherine Seymour and Councillor Glen Sanderson, who is the cabinet member for environment and local services at Northumberland County Council.

Under the plans, four controversial coach parking spaces in central Berwick will be converted into car parking spaces instead.

The original scheme by the former Labour administration on the council to provide the coach parking bays in Chapel Street never proved popular, and was criticised by coach operators, many local businesses and residents.

The new proposals, which are subject to planning permission, will see the coach bays transformed into 25 new car parking spaces to benefit shoppers.

Berwick Town Council is being asked for its views on the plans before a final decision is made, but Conservative councillor for Berwick North, Catherine Seymour, said she is hopeful the plans will receive support.

"Not only will 25 new car parking spaces provide a boost for shoppers, it will also give businesses and the local economy a lift too as a result," she said.

"The coach bays have not been used to full effect and I am delighted councillors have stepped in with these proposed changes to make the most of the available space to benefit everyone the town.

"Parking has long been an issue in Berwick and having listened to local people, this plan seems the perfect solution for business owners, residents and visitors to our wonderful town."

Under the proposals, coaches will continue to drop-off on Church Street before parking up at the Swan Centre leisure facility in Tweedmouth.