Despite claims that rises in town centre car park charges will drive shoppers away, it is hoped that an investment programme which accompanies the price-hike, will improve Croydon's parking stock.

Increases in town and district centre car park charges, on-street parking, resident and business permits, and extended hours of town centre controlled parking will generate over £1.5million extra revenue between August 2002 and March 2003.

But a car park improvement programme will improve facilities with a £1.3million refurbishment of the Wandle multi-storey, new barriers at the Fairfield and valeting in the Whitgift.

Town centre manger Tony Hart revealed that he had been consulted on the charges, and believes they are right for the long-term sustainability of the town centre.

He said: "The important thing is that having got the pricing right, we now improve the quality of car parking facilities in terms of size, environment and service."

Croydon council approved the changes, which come into effect from August 12, last week, claiming they will reduce congestion and persuade drivers to switch to public transport.

But Coun Gavin Barwell, Conservative spokesman on parking, said: "Far from encouraging people to use public transport, it will encourage them to drive further to rival shopping centres like Bromley and Sutton where it is much cheaper to park."

Coun Gerry Ryan, cabinet member for transport said the price increases were in line with the council's and London Mayor's environmental policies.

He pointed out that short stay (up to two hours) prices in the town centre had been increased, while longer stays (two to four hours) were unchanged in line with the views of traders and the town centre management group.

Mr Hart added: "What we wanted was to extend the amount of time that people stay in the town centre, and the rates for longer stays make them more attractive."

- Increases in town centre car park charges, targeting short-stay visitors who park for under two hours. No rise for three/four hour parking.

- 19 per cent rise in on-street parking fees.

- Extended hours of controlled parking around the town centre 7am to 7pm, from 9am to 5pm. An increased fee of £4 from £3.

- A rise in evening rates at the Fairfield, Dingwall Road, Wandle Road and Spice Yard pay and display from 90p to £2 on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday, and £3 on other evenings.

- Penalty charges will rise from £60 to £80 throughout central Croydon.

- Business permits will rise to £200 a year from £80 with two permits maximum per business and only one vehicle allowed to be registered per permit.

July 10, 2002 11:00