The cost of leaving your car in one of Thanet's car parks is set to soar.

Thanet District Council (TDC) has released details of a price increase which is due to come into effect on Saturday, April 1.

It will see the cost of parking for one hour in Dreamland's car park, which is run by TDC, leap from £1.60 to £4.

People wishing to leave their vehicle in the car parks in Trinity Square, Albion Place and Vera Road will have to pay 20p more for the first hour as the cost rises to £1.10.

The council has defended the decision, saying some parking is free on Saturdays.

Acting head of operational services Trevor Kennett said: "Members approved the 2017-18 Fees and Charges report on Thursday, December 1, 2016, which included some changes to parking charges in Thanet to take effect from Saturday, April 1, 2017.

"Broadly, these changes were to increase parking prices by on average 20p per hour, predominantly within town car parks.

"There continues to be free parking on Saturdays at the main car parks across Margate, Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Cliftonville.

'There continues to be free parking on Saturdays at the main car parks across Margate, Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Cliftonville' - Acting head of operational services Trevor Kennett

"The changes were the outcome of an extensive review of parking provision across the district, which assessed demand during seasonal periods, and special consideration given to keep residents' permits at a minimum."

But one Birchington resident has called for a public consultation before the decision to increase charges is made by councillors.

Rod Giddins, a former operations director for Hampton Court Palace, said: "I used to be in local government and I am surprised there was not any consultation.

"At a time when everyone is supporting the regeneration of Dreamland, the council is proposing to increase the charge there for one hour from £1.60 to £4.

"If you stay over five hours it will be £12 instead of £8.

"Tourism is seen as a growth industry in the Local Plan but this proposal seems completely at odds with that."

Mr Giddins also called on the council to reconsider the proposals or risk having fewer visitors to the area.