A BUSINESS boss is hoping free parking will give high street firms a boost in Maldon as lockdown eases.
For the last six years, Roy Pipe, of R Pipe Insurance in the High Street, has made a £5,000 donation to Plume Academy.
In return, school bosses open up the academy car park and tennis court area to the public for free car parking after school hours on weekdays and at weekends.
The initiative is designed to encourage shoppers into Maldon High Street.
Plume Academy finance director Richard Scott said: "The High Street is one of Roy’s passions, having had his insurance consultancy established there for many years, but it is a mutually beneficial agreement as the donation brings huge benefit to the academy towards our own fundraising as it helps with outdoor maintenance and student resources.