A FURIOUS York resident has accused ruling councillors of bulldozing democracy with plans to impose huge rises in parking charges.

Kevin McCarron, of The Groves, said City of York Council risked political repercussions if new parking charges, some of which will see 60- minute waiting zones turned into pay-and-display areas, are approved.

Other charges will see the cost of a residents' parking permit double to £84.

Mr McCarron labelled the charges "predatory and opportunistic" and said the level of anger in Park Grove, where he has lived for 23 years, was strong enough for residents of the area to rise up.

"People are furious and feel disempowered," he said. "They are incensed and determined to take the matter on."

Mr McCarron said the charges would be unfair for parents picking up children from nearby Park Grove School, for elderly people, and for health visitors.

He has already collected a 68-signature petition opposing the charges. Some residents have even talked of civil disobedience.

"We want to improve Park Grove not degrade it. This has inspired us now, we have formed the Park Grove Residents' Association and we are going to speak up over other issues."

The father-of-two called the decision a "fait accompli" and said the hikes could not be justified.

"It is just being bulldozed through in meeting at a time that is inaccessible for people to attend."

Ward councillor Janet Looker has opposed the charges from the start.

"They are a disgrace, a tax on people for living in the city centre. We worked for years to get people to live in the city. It makes it a safer and more dynamic place," she said.

Coun Looker did not condemn the threat of civil disobedience in Park Grove.

She added: "People are finding their frustrations reaching such a pitch they can't see anywhere else to go. There has been no consultation on this at all."

Council transport boss Ann Reid said she had taken four calls from Park Grove residents, including two that had threatened civil disobedience.

"If people vandalise a parking meter and somebody sees them the council would take the same action as it would against someone vandalising any council property."

The council hopes the charges will net an additional income of £505,000. A decision will be made at the executive meeting tomorrow at 2pm.

Updated: 15:06 Monday, March 01, 2004