Free parking has been introduced at Bolton Street Car Park in Waterford City until 9.30am on school days.

Waterford City and County Council says the measure is aimed at making the school run easier for families while also reducing traffic congestion around nearby schools.

Parents and guardians who need to drive are being encouraged to use the car park for a ‘park and stride’ or ‘drop and go’ option before continuing the journey to school on foot.

The move follows recent Safe Routes to School works in the Newtown area and forms part of the council’s wider efforts to encourage more active school travel.

The council says the measure will also support schools taking part in its Stride to School initiative, which encourages students and families to walk, cycle, park and stride or use drop-and-go options.

Mayor of Waterford City and County Council Cllr. Liam Brazil said more active school journeys could help reduce traffic congestion, air pollution and noise around schools.

He said the initiative is designed to make active travel a more practical option for families and to create a safer environment around school communities.

Teachers at both De La Salle College and Waterpark College have also welcomed the initiative, saying it supports student well-being while helping to reduce traffic around schools.