Car parking charge increases in Colchester have been defended by the council, which claims the prices will remain among the lowest in the region.

John Simpson, head of street services at Colchester Council, said he did not believe the increases would deter people from visiting Colchester, as the prices were lower than other towns in the region.

He added that the new price structure was still cheaper than the National Car Park charges.

The extra income will fund the refurbishment of St John's and St Mary's car parks, and the price increases will support the council's transport policy. The prices are due to come into force after February 16.

Published Thursday January 22, 2004

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