A MEMBER of North Berwick Community Council has branded the local authority's controversial plans to introduce parking charges in the town centre "a blatant money-making scheme".

Last month, East Lothian Council unveiled four separate traffic regulation orders which aimed “to simplify the presentation of the proposals”. This followed on from hundreds of objections to similar plans for parking charges in the town centre last year. 

At the community council's meeting last week, members discussed the topic, with many of them showing their frustration.

READ MORE: Revised parking charge proposals revealed for North Berwick

Kenny Miller, community council chair, said: "It is clear to say that 'here we go again' is the appropriate phrase for these proposals.

"We need to start to look at a public meeting and the possibility of a petition to hear what other residents think about the proposals."

Christiane Maher, treasurer, said: "It is a blatant money-making scheme by the council." 

According to the council, the aim of the proposals is to “increase the turnover of parking spaces to make it easier for people to park and access town centre businesses and amenities during busy periods”.

Proposals include the introduction of controlled parking zones, £40 annual parking permits for residents in affected areas, time restrictions and charges for parking on some streets and in some car parks.

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: “The proposals aim to increase the turnover of parking spaces to make it easier for people to park and access town centre businesses and amenities during busy periods, as well as enhancing the environment and making the town centre safer for pedestrians, cyclists and the wider community.

“Most other council areas in Scotland already have a form of town centre parking charges.

“Time limits and charges vary due to different parking demands. It is recognised that many trips into the town centre are very short.

“In response to earlier feedback, a number of changes have been made including an increase in the free charge period on the High Street from 30 minutes to 45 minutes, as well as increased maximum length of stays within the Controlled Parking Zones.”