Council officials are considering a rethink over plans to scrap free parking at 20 sites across the East Riding.

An alternative option now being examined is to introduce restricted free parking at council-run short-day sites in the area.

Under the idea, motorists would be able to park free of charge for a limited period before charges kick in.

Such a move could win over traders in places such as Anlaby, Cottingham, Hessle and Pocklington who fear scrapping free parking altogether will only drive shoppers elsewhere.

One well-placed County Hall source told the Mail: "This isn't so much of a U-turn as a well executed three-point turn."

However, doubts remain whether the financial gain to the council would outweigh the cost to introduce the charges under this option.

The controversial proposal to introduce charging was put forward by a panel of councillors after a major review of the council's car parking provision.

Aimed at creating a consistent policy across the East Riding, the panel's proposals also include reducing charges at many sites where motorists already pay to park.

The move prompted the Mail to launch its Park The Charges campaign, calling on the council to abandon the introduction of further charges.

So far, more than 20,000 people have signed our petition.

Review panel chairman Councillor Felicity Temple confirmed the option of having limited free short-stay parking was under discussion.

She said: "It is something we are looking at, along with a number of other options.

"There are revenue implications to consider if we go down that particular route and they would need to be examined very carefully before any decision was made."

Butcher Brian Fields, of Anlaby, has gathered thousands of signatures protesting against the charges.

He said: "A U-turn on the parking charge proposals would show the council does actually listen to the people and show that, in these troubled times, common sense does sometimes prevail.

"If these proposals are introduced, most businesses will be able to survive and keep trading without going bankrupt or making staff redundant."

Paul Weeks, who runs a photography business in the village, said: "Anything would be better than what they are proposing.

"This is not ideal, but it shows they are thinking about it.

"Ideally, we would want it to be abolished completely."

John Dyson, who trades at Cottingham and Beverley markets, said: "Personally, I'm not happy with it.

"Smaller towns and villages should have free parking.

"I can see where the council is going, but it's not enough."

A roadshow highlighting the East Riding's current parking proposals will be at Goole Leisure Centre on Monday, from 4.30pm to 7pm, before moving to The Spa in Bridlington on Thursday, between the same hours.