INCREASES in New Forest parking charges which could send the cost of a long-stay permit soaring to more than 13 times the current level have been criticised by Liberal Democrats.

New Forest District Council's ruling Conservatives have tabled changes to the existing car park clock system which will be discussed by the cabinet on Wednesday, September 7.

Current parking clocks cost £6 and allow drivers to park in either short or long-stay bays in car parks in forest towns.

A two-tier system of charging is being proposed.

Short stay is to be extended from two to three hours with the cost of the clock going up to £8.

These clocks can be used in long-term bays for three hours before money goes in the meter.

A new clock will be introduced for people who want to park for more than three hours.

The cost will be £80 for 12 months or £44 for six months.

It will also be valid in coastal amenity car parks.

The Conservatives gained control of the council in 1999 on the promise they would dump car park charges introduced by Liberal Democrats.

But by the beginning of 2003 the meters were back.

"It's the most outrageously cynical move I've seen in a long time, given what the Tories were saying six years ago about not introducing charges," said Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Maureen Robinson.

"And the introduction of this two-tier thing is going to have a huge impact.

"Shoppers, if they want to park all day, will find they have to buy a ticket, so it's a double whammy."

But council leader Cllr Melville Kendal said: "The council is striving to balance the needs of local residents, motorists, businesses and other organisations such as community centres when considering these important changes. As a council we are striving to keep our town and village centres vibrant and financially viable.

"We want to encourage a greater turnover of vehicles in council-run car parks and provide as many car parking opportunities as possible."

Employers should consider introducing green travel plans, he said.

First published: September 3, 2005