Have your say on a planned 200% hike on parking permits in Tunbridge Wells

Tunbridge Wells residents are being urged to put forward comments on the proposal by TWBC to substantially increase parking permit costs in the town.

Two years ago, an annual residents' parking permit for one vehicle was just £20. In 2011 this doubled to £40. It is proposed that from April 2012 the charge will increase to £60, representing a 200% increase from previous levels.

TWBC have justified the hike by explaining the additional costs are down to increased administration expense, but are seeking local views on the plans.

A public portal has been opened until 29th January 2012 to gather opinions. Unsurprisingly, most people are against the proposals - not because of the charge itself - but the high % increase combined with the fact that a permit is no guarantee of a parking space, particularly at peak times. 

Opposition councillors said raising the charges could harm the local economy.

Councillor David Neve, the leader of the opposition Liberal Democrats, said it was "a money-grabbing exercise by a cash-strapped council".

"The need to raise income also creates an incentive for car drivers to find alternative modes of transport to and from the town," he added.

The inceases mean Tunbridge Wells' parking costs for residents will be the highest in Kent. Edmund King, President of the AA commented on Twitter that this was "outrageous profiteering in Tunbridge Wells on parking charges. Disgusted locals up in arms."

What do you think about the increase? Will it affect you personally? Will you be commenting on the portal?