A STORM has broken out over a bumper increase in car park charges in Wyre.

Although residents will get free parking in some areas, charges are going up from 30p to 80p for a maximum two hours.

Council opposition groups have failed to get a debate on the issue but have have managed to block plans for charges on Sundays.

"In an ideal world, parking would be free for everyone, not just residents. The council has to make savings in excess of £280,000 this year," said Conservative Coun Peter Hawley, the physical environment portfolio holder who took the decision.

"The increased charges are still less than surrounding authorities and will help to offset some of these savings and generate income."

However, Labour group leader Keith Riley has blasted the move as financial bungling and said residents would still finish up paying the charge.

He said the increase had come after the council had already set a budget.

"Why do it now? Are they trying to con the public? They have set a budget and now come with this. It smacks of lack of financial ability.

"They have come with things like closing toilets and tourist information centres, cutting back on grass cutting and closing down the outdoor swimming pool at Fleetwood."

On the 166 per cent parking increase he said: "They are going to get free parking, but not at the most popular car parks."

He said that when the free areas filled up residents would be forced to pay 80p.

"It's definite people are still going to have to pay.

This extra charge will impose an unacceptable hardship on all residents, businesses and, particularly, the elderly."

The opposition managed to stop Sunday charges by blocking the necessary traffic regulation at the council's Licensing Committee.

A handful of spaces allowing free parking for an hour will disappear as will an old permit scheme giving a hour's free parking.

Free passes will allow four hours parking and will be valid at Hardhorn Road, Poulton; North Promenade, Cleveleys; Windsor Road, Garstang; and Albert Street, Fleetwood.

Applications forms are available from Poulton Civic Centre, area offices at Cleveleys, Garstang, Fleetwood and Knott End or by 24-hour phone line 01253 887265. Forms also be downloaded at www.wyrebc.gov.uk or requested by e-mail at carparks@wyrebc.gov.uk.