Councillors approved the move at the request of Orange mayor Reg Kidd, which came into force on Wednesday.

Orange City Council also waived the $3 fee last year in an effort to ease parking pressure on the CBD during the busy retail period in the lead-up to Christmas.

MAP: Where is the Ophir car park …

Fees collected in December last year were half those during the same time in 2016.

Cr Kidd said the decision was made to provide additional support to shoppers and businesses during the busiest time of year.

“Orange streets and car parks are well used during the month of December, and sometimes there can be pressure on available spaces,” he said.

“In the past, removal of the usual parking fee of $3 per day has relieved some of that pressure.

“Last year, when we waived the fee, the car park was nearly full.”

Cr Kidd urged motorists to continue to consider their fellow residents in regards to parking in timed spaces.

“It’s important we all share available spaces throughout the CBD and abide by the set time limits,” he said.

“Everyone needs to get their gift shopping done and it’s good we can ensure a turnaround of spaces by leaving the car space once the allocated time is up.”