Fears have been raised that an increase in car parking fees across Wallingford will discourage tourists, affect business, and hit residents already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

Since April 1, parking on Thames Street, St Georges Road and Castle Street, and Cattlemarket has increased by between 20p and 60p.

Parking for one hour is still free, but the price increases kick-in after two hours.

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The car parks are all operated by South Oxfordshire District Council, which voted to introduce the increase across the district to match inflation.

However, some people in Wallingford fear the rises will have a negative impact on the town.

Daniel Beauchamp, who runs KP Stationers in Market Place, said it could affect his business.

He said: “I don’t think any one thing is a decider but it’s part of the package. I guess it would influence some people.”

Mr Beauchamp said it was poor timing after it was announced that Wallingford’s X39 bus service to Oxford service would be cut by Thames Travel.

He said: “My concern with increasing the car parking is this is happening at the same time we a reduction in our public transport.

“I don’t know what the motivation is. Whether it’s to cover their costs or to persuade people to not use cars.

“If you are encouraging people not to use their cars, it doesn’t seem to be in lockstep with transport.”

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Town councillor Deborah Whelan, who is not seeking re-election to the council next month, said drivers were being “persecuted.”

She said: “The increase of parking charges means that drivers are being persecuted wherever they go.

“Punishing the driver is not helpful when, even though we have a good bus service here, it is still inadequate for many people.

“Living in a Saxon town, we’re not actually designed for this many cars. The whole layout of the town wasn’t designed around the car and so there are of course problems.

“The raising of prices is not helpful for people who live in this historical town.

“I don’t think it’s right and it’s not fair. Everybody has been struggling with the cost-of-living crisis over the last year or so and it is most unfair.”

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Ms Whelan suggested more parking provision was instead needed in the town, and suggested a park and ride to boost tourism.

She said: “There needs to be an increase in the amount of parking availability and give a greater number of parking permits to people who own properties.

“There are lots of developments coming to Wallingford and this will put more pressure on the parking.

“It would be great to have a park and ride located at the edge of town. We have the castle, some great history, and the soon-to-be Agatha Christie statue.

“It would be nice to invite people in and for them to have the time to look around.”

The district council said the extra revenue, which is estimated to bring in about £70,000, will be used to help maintain the district’s car parks and pay for ongoing costs for the service.