VISITORS to Dedham will be charged to use two village car parks from Monday.

Tourists using car parks at Mill Lane and Mill Pond can park for free for an hour but will be charged for longer stays.

Overnight parking will 50p.

Colchester Council, which has introduced the charges with the agreement of Dedham Parish Council, has been trying to draw in extra income by introducing pay and display machines at various borough car parks.

The agreement means 40 more spaces will be available over the summer at Mill Lane, which will also cater for tourist coaches on weekdays.

Every local business is being given two free staff permits, while annual permits are available to buy.

The North Essex Parking Partnership, which is managing the car parks, has resurfaced both car parks, cut back vegetation and installed new lightings.