Football fans will not have to pay to park this season after a council announces it is to renew a consultation on the issue.

Stevenage Borough Council has decided to renew its consultation on charging fans to park in Fairlands Valley showground, next to the Lamex Stadium.

Signs had been placed announcing that people would have to pay a flat charge of £5.20 to park at the previously free car park.

Speaking today, Monday, Cllr John Gardner, deputy leader of SBC, said today, Monday: “The council first made the football club management aware of this proposal in September 2013. We also consulted Stevenage residents through our Café Choice sessions and other means. I was therefore disappointed to read on Friday that the club’s new management was not aware of this. This scheme has clearly caused concern to those Stevenage residents who actively support Stevenage FC, and we will now consult with those people more directly.

“As always we wish Stevenage FC good luck and best wishes for the forthcoming season.”

The decision had sparked anger at the club and among fans who argued the charge would lower attendance levels at games and causing disruption in neighbouring residential areas as people parked there rather than pay the fee.

The club have yet to respond.