The public will be asked if they wish to have 20 minutes free parking across the borough as part of the budget consultation.
Ukip leader Lawrence Webb (Gooshays) proposed the idea, saying “It’s a sound business idea for small businesses.”
Cllr Robert Benham (Con, Brooklands) warned that a free period in Romford town centre would not be possible due to contracts with private car parks, so it could not be a “blanket proposal” for the borough.
He warned there would be costs involved in pay-and-display meters.
All members backed the idea but a row nearly flared among those who found the unanimity unusual.
Chief executive Cheryl Coppel said: “It begins to seem it’s harder when the council agrees.”
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