CAMPAIGNERS have hit back at councillors’ “unfair” decision to increase parking charges in Maldon town centre.

Chris Harvey, vice-chair of Maldon Business Association, said: “I just felt that a lot of this was not actually looking at it from any other view than the council’s own financial situation.

“They didn’t even want to talk about the impact it might have on facilities in Maldon town centre.

“We have got to accept that this decision has been made, but the one thing they did talk about is having the six-month review.”

Judy Lea, of Maldon Society, branded the decision a “shame” and a “shambles”.

She said: “Despite over 600 signing up to an e-petition in less than a month, and more e-mails from the public than some members said they had ever had on any other issue, key points identified by the local community were totally blanked at council.

“The key issue of fairness across the district, rather than picking on Maldon town alone, was not even touched on during the council debate.

“No measures to start charging in Burnham or spread permits for parking in any other towns or villages were forthcoming.”

Diane McCallum, who started the petition opposing the plans, said: “I am pleased that the petition raised awareness of the public's opposition to the proposed changes in charges.

“The proposals were amended slightly and I feel that the evening and Sunday charges are still wrong, but a £1 flat rate is better than £1.50.

“Regarding the council car park, I think that as they have decided to charge for weekends here, this could have been £1 for both days instead of £1 for Sundays and pro rata for Saturdays.”