A PLAN to scrap free parking for healthcare staff in Oxford, which was introduced in the beginning of the pandemic, has been blasted by residents.

Oxford City Council announced plans to withdraw free parking concessions for NHS employees, health and social care workers or NHS volunteer responders from Monday, July 19, in line with Oxfordshire County Council.

But people in the city reacted with anger and said 'Shame on you Oxford City Council'.

Ruth Roach, who lives in the city, said: "Yet another slap in the face for NHS workers and volunteers and H&S Care workers."

ALSO READ: Oxford GP calls plan to scrap self-isolation for NHS staff 'foolhardy'

With lockdown restrictions being eased and demand for parking spots increasing, the local authority decided that healthcare workers should stop benefitting from free parking.

A statement on Oxford City Council says: "From July 19 copies of NHS passes or letters from employers left in vehicles, will no longer be recognised for free parking.

"After this date, vehicles not parking in accordance with the restrictions run the risk of being issued with an excess charge notice.

"Please remember to make payment to park from this date."