The Federation of Small Businesses has added its voice to concerns that some councils could be cashing in on car parking charges.

Gordon Millward, FSB regional chairman, said:

“This research highlights the need for a clear discussion about parking provision across the region and how to discourage local authorities from using parking fees and fines for financial gain.

“In a recent survey by the FSB, 48 per cent of small firms said that the cost of parking has a negative impact on their business and 42 per cent of small businesses think the cost of parking should be reduced.”