Plans to increase car parking fees in Tonbridge and Malling are set to be debated by councillors.

The proposal to be introduced in 2020 recommends a freeze in charges for a 30-minute stay and increases of between 10p and 80p for longer stays.

Above is a table of the current and proposed charges.

The cabinet is also due to consider implementing fees in, at least, three car parks which are currently free - these include Martin Square, Larkfield and the two Bailey Bridge sites in Aylesford.

It is hoped that the change will improve turnover in spaces and bring them into line with the rest of the borough.

The charges proposed range from 20p for 30 minutes to £5.30 for a full day.

Similar charges are being considered for the Rocfort Road car park in Snodland as well.

The introduction of pay and display charging has also been proposed for nine parking bays at the north end of Tonbridge High Street and a further nine in Lyons Crescent.

The rises will be the first in two years and, if approved, will be enforced from April 2020.

Free parking will continue to operate in town centre council car parks on Sundays and bank holidays and for the first time, it will also be extended to those going to monthly blood donor sessions at the Angel Centre in Tonbridge.

At the same time, the council has decided to stop paper permits for residents' parking and, from this month, all permit renewals will need to be completed online

The cost of a single vehicle permit, last increased in 2016, is due to rise from £40 to £45 a year from April 2020. There are around 4,500 permit holders in the borough.

Higher charges will apply for households with three or more vehicles.

The proposal also details halving the cost of permits for registered carers from £50 to £25.

Robert Styles, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s Director of Street Scene, Leisure and Technical Services, said: “While no one likes to see the cost of parking go up, we consider it fair that those who use our car parks contribute to the considerable cost of their day-to-day upkeep and planned improvements.

" As our roads and car parks become more congested, charges can also help local businesses by encouraging a turnover in spaces which makes it easier for shoppers and visitors to find a place.”

The consultation is due to go before the borough council on Monday, January 6.

The changes will be subject to public consultation after which councillors will make their final decision.

New and existing car park charges will be open to public comment from Friday, January 17 to Sunday, February 9.

A separate three-week consultation on changes to on-street parking will open on Friday, March 13.

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