Controversial parking charge changes now in force

Controversial changes to parking charges in an area of Kent are now in force despite objections from some residents and visitors.

Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council have extended the charging period at most of its car parks from 18:00 to 20:00, as well as to Sundays and bank holidays - excluding Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

In Tonbridge, free parking for up to 30 minutes has also been introduced in six short-stay car parks in the town centre.

The council said the new charges were "designed to meet the rising costs" of providing 34 car parks across the borough.

Notices are being displayed in car parks where chargeable hours have been extended.

The free 30 minutes is being offered at the short-stay car parks in Bradford Street, Castle Grounds, Kinnings Row, Lamberts Yard, River Lawn and Upper Castle Field.

Nine extra pay-and-display spaces have also been created outside Tonbridge Castle.

New charges at Martin Square in Larkfield and the on-street bays in West Malling are on hold pending the installation of ticket machines that will offer an hour’s free parking.

Charges at Aylesford’s two car parks will also not come into force until an extension of the Bailey Bridge East car park is completed.

Once introduced, drivers will have one hour’s free parking and will also be able to purchase an annual season ticket for £120.

In June, a protest meeting was held in Tonbridge over the changes.

The council said it had received a report that highlighted a "sharp increase" in overheads for operating car parks and the need to generate more income.

The council's cabinet member responsible for parking, Martin Coffin, said: "We have listened to feedback and taken a pragmatic approach that protects the future of our car parks and ensures that the income reflects the rising costs of delivering them."

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