CHANGES to the car parking charges in Monmouth are coming under the spotlight with new proposals to increase some charges, and introduce others.

A review of the county’s car parks will include current free car parks and will look to charge £1 for Sunday parking in an attempt to keep financial pressure off the MCC budget following a reduction in funding from the Welsh Government

The new proposals are expected to bring in an extra £215,000 according to MCC figures, although this would be offset in the first year by the extra staffing required to introduce the infrastructure for new car parks and legal support to prepare and manage the new car parking order.

The proposals include an increase of 10 per cent on present charges, with charging times stretched from 8am to 6pm with short stay car parks increasing to £1.50 for up to two hours.

Blue Badge holders will face a charge after the first hour, and free Christmas parking will be axed

Already the new charging regime for the short stay Glendower Street car parking is having an effect as cars that have paid for four hours, are not allowed to return for two hours.

Concern has been raised by David Cummings, chair of the local business group who said that an increase in charges is likely to reduce footfall in town. He “strongly objects” to the changes in charging times saying that charging after 5pm will hit those coming home from work wishing to call in town, pushing more business to the retailers out of town who have free parking.

Mr Cummings, who leads the Monmouth and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce added: “We welcome the suggestion that funds might be used to improve the parking capacity of our town , but note that nearly three years after the Wyebridge Street car park plans were approved, work has not yet commenced.”

MCC point out that the proposals must be seen in a wider context where car park income is reinvested into council priorities such as public transport, traffic, management, highway maintenance, car park management and maintenance etc.

They add: “The council is investing into research into improving public transport and sustainable fuels. Although not significant the charge for parking may encourage some to use public transport rather than private cars.

The council has plans to take over on-street parking later this year following the withdrawal of enforcement by Gwent Police.

MCC officers are taking over those parking enforcement duties that fall under civil law on 7th April. All those infringements relating to traffic lines and signs such as double yellow lines, parking and loading bays will now be administered by council officials - at an estimated cost of £250k for refurbishment and staff.