HARLESTON is planning to lease its two public car parks from the district council in order to keep them free from parking charges. It follows fierce local opposition to proposals by the local authority to introduce parking fees at Harleston for the first time.

HARLESTON is planning to lease its two public car parks from the district council in order to keep them free from parking charges.

It follows fierce local opposition to proposals by the local authority to introduce parking fees at Harleston for the first time.

The town council is considering entering into a lease with South Norfolk Council, with the cost being spread across council tax and business rate payers. Surrounding parish councils will be invited to support the initiative.

Lynne Aldred, chairman of the town council's car parks committee, said it was an important opportunity for the community, and they were recommending approval.

“Thousands of people have been very concerned that a unique way of life and local businesses on which we depend could be placed at risk by the introduction of parking charges.

“That shadow can now been lifted.

“Shared out, it would cost each household about 2p a day, and each business about 20p a day - a very small price to pay to help to secure our future,” she said.

Bullock Fair car park is soon to be resurfaced, the work being carried out and paid for by South Norfolk Council as part of its maintenance programme. The authority will con-tinue to undertake litter collection, management of the toilets, surface water drainage issues and pay the business rates on the car parks.

The Harleston and District Car Parks Group, founded to give a voice to residents and businesses, has backed the leasing proposal.

The recommendation will be considered by the full town council on July 29. The committee estimates the initiative will cost £20,000 a year.