THE borough council has decided to go ahead with introducing parking charges at Eastrop despite only one person supporting the proposal.

Councillor Hayley Eachus, cabinet member for recycling, waste and regulatory services at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, has approved plans to introduce parking charges at the town centre park, which would see visitors having to pay £8 to stay the day.

Read more: Almost 90 per cent against parking charges at Eastrop

Charges are expected to start from mid-May once new signage and parking machines have been installed.

The proposed charges were reduced from £12.80 after more than 130 people objected to the original plans las year.

Sixty people commented on the revised plans earlier this year, with 59 objecting.

Only one person was in support of the plans which would see visitors having to pay £1 for up to two hours; £2 for up to four hours; £4 for up to six hours; £7 for up to eight hours; and £8 for more than eight hours.

Evening charges would be £2 from between 7pm and 8am.

Those objecting to the plans included the Model Boat Club, the manager of the kiosk and two local councillors.

Those who commented on the plans raised various objections including that the park provides a low-cost activity for families; charges will restrict access to the park, especially for families, children and those on a low income; parking charges may displace parking to neighbouring areas; and the charges may financially impact local businesses.

A report prepared by the borough council said the charges provide a “fair compromise” adding: “Amending the tariff to a more favourable rate will help to overcome some of the objections received whilst still better managing parking.”

It admitted that the charges could have a “differentially adverse impact on some people including families/carers with children, some older people and those on a low income”.

It will cost the council around £8,000 to install two new parking meters and signs at Eastrop.

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