WORK is set to begin on a carpark in Newport's town centre in a bid to increase the amount of available spaces.

Short stay car parks on New Street and Chapel Street will be closed to allow Island Roads to add an extra six spaces, totalling 212.

A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Council said: "The scheme will be carried out over six nights to ensure daytime parking is retained at this important town centre location.

"Railings, which once separated the two car parks, have already been removed to create a larger, combined car park with a simplified layout which is both clearer and easier for motorists to follow.

"The scheme also involves permanently closing off access from Chapel Street in response to complaints the entrance is difficult to negotiate.

"Following the completion of the works, motorists will enter and leave the car park via New Street only.

"Two on-street parking spaces will be removed to improve visibility at this access point.

"The work is part of a programme of car park resurfacing that is continuing to take place across the Island."