Drivers risk huge price hikes as cash-strapped council removes free parking from popular car parks

The council is pushing forward with the plans despite facing significant opposition during public consultations held last December.

The proposed changes come as the council grapples with a multi-million-pound gap in its budget, with the new parking fees seen as a way to generate much-needed revenue.

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Under the new scheme, parking charges will be in effect from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday. The council also plans to implement a cashless payment system, with fees payable only by bank card or mobile phone app.

Card payments will incur an additional 15p fee, according to council documents. The authority ruled out cash payments, citing concerns over "theft and vandalism" at the parking sites.

Under the new charging structure, motorists will be entitled to one hour of free parking at all locations. After the initial free period, charges will start at £1.15 for two hours, with a daily maximum rate of £3.65.

Weekly tickets will be available for regular users at £12.15. Special arrangements have been made for the Station Gardens car park in Wetherby, which is frequently used by sports teams.

At this location, visitors will benefit from up to three hours of free parking. The daily rate at Station Gardens will be set at £2.15, with weekly tickets available at a reduced rate of £10.15.

The council report suggests these "modest" charges will help fund improvements and maintenance of the car park areas.

Public opposition to the planned charges has been overwhelming, with a survey finding that between 84 and 96 per cent of respondents are against the new fees. Thousands of local residents have signed petitions opposing the introduction of parking charges.

A council report acknowledged the widespread resistance, stating: "This is not surprising given that people are being asked to pay for something that they have considered to be free."

Despite the significant pushback from local communities, the council appears determined to proceed with implementing the new charging scheme.The consultation, which launched in December last year, highlighted the stark divide between the council's financial needs and public sentiment.

However, Blue Badge holders will be exempt from the new parking charges across all six locations.

A council report defended the introduction of charges, stating they would "enable improvement works to be carried out as well as meet costs associated with maintaining car park areas."

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One resident warned: "I wouldn’t pay to visit villages. Council have once again ignored residents viewpoints and are pressing ahead with charging for parking at a number of our parks, including Golden Acre and the Chevin."