THE South's motorists were today left reeling by news of yet another offensive against drivers.

Already facing a huge increase in the number of speed cameras, motorists learned today they could now come up against CCTV systems watching where they park - as well as rocketing parking fines in Southampton.

The basic penalty for drivers caught parking illegally across the city is set to rise from £40 to £60 - and those who fail to pay up on time will have to cough up a hefty £90.

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A new decriminalisation scheme is set to make parking offences civil rather than criminal proceedings - leaving the council also responsible for fining drivers who leave their cars on double yellow lines.

The plans were unveiled as the government announced trials of controversial spy cameras to monitor motorists as they park.

Those caught stopping in the wrong place, even for a few moments, could incur a penalty of up to £80 - and may know nothing of the offence until a ticket lands on their doormat days later.

Motoring organisations have attacked the scheme, being tested in parts of London this summer, as a further example of "Big Brother" tactics.

Today Southampton's Labour leader, Councillor June Bridle, said the decriminalisation of parking fines in the city was designed to give a more consistent approach, relieving the burden on an over stretched police force.

"I am very much in favour of the move. There are too many anomalies at the moment. People ring us wanting something to be done about illegal parking and we have to say it is not up to us - even though the illegal parking is often causing a dangerous situation.

"If the responsibility for enforcement lies solely with the council we can tackle illegal parking," she said.

The basic parking fine will rise from £40 to £60 - and if a reminder letter has to be sent out the charge will rocket to £90.

The increase is designed to cover any shortfall in the running costs for the new scheme.

The plans will be debated at the next corporate committee and talks are going on with Hampshire police over the move of traffic wardens from the constabulary to the council.

"We want to ensure the move over of the traffic wardens is as smooth as possible so we will be having additional talks.

"Portsmouth and Winchester have introduced the same scheme so we will be drawing on their experience," she said.