YORK MP Hugh Bayley wants council leaders to "think again" about controversial parking charges.

He claimed fees that have sparked uproar in many parts of York were having a "bad effect" on the city.

Micklegate, Fossgate and Goodramgate traders have all hit out at the changes - but Liberal Democrat councillors have stressed that early figures show the charges have not triggered a drop in evening car park use.

Mr Bayley said: "These parking charges are bad for business, bad for voluntary bodies and bad for residents.

"I first wrote to express my concern in January and have written to the council on behalf of businesses and residents on a number of occasions.

"I do think the council should think again and reduce the charges because they are having a bad effect on the city."

One York choir has complained that it now costs members a total of £300 to park in York for a practice session.

Mr Bayley - adding his voice to growing unrest on rising costs of Respark permits, new evening tariffs and other restrictions - said City of York Council needed to prioritise spending policies then cut the financial burden on York residents.

He said: "I think parking charges are a serious problem. If people want to go out for a night they are going to be tempted to find a restaurant or venue out of town.

Lib Dem transport executive member Coun Ann Reid reiterated that charges would be reviewed in October.

Updated: 10:49 Monday, June 07, 2004