Harrow Borough Council has announced two schemes it hopes will please motorists and boost trade.

The authority announced on Tuesday it would put an extra £200,000 towards filling in potholes following calls from residents to improve roads eroded by winter snow and frost.

The council also plans to launch a scheme giving residents 20 minutes free parking in metered spaces around the borough in the run up to Christmas 2013.

Cllr Phillip O’ Dell, portfolio holder for environment and comunity safety, said: “The condition of our roads is a major concern for residents which is why we are increasing the amount of money we plan to invest to ensure they are well maintained.

“This maintenance work will help reduce the number of potholes caused by snow and ice each year and will make our network last longer.”