COUNCIL chiefs are being urged to slam the brakes on plans to levy charges in a busy town centre car park.

Campaigners say the introduction of pay and display machines in the Rumbridge Street car park in Totton will result in drivers leaving their vehicles in residential roads.

New Forest District Council has already received more than 30 objections from people living in the area.

Most of the car parks in Totton are still free but the council carried out a review last year after being hit by a sharp rise in business rates and other overheads.

Drivers in Totton can continue to use the civic centre and Westfield Road car parks for nothing. However, almost all the free parking in the Rumbridge Street facility is due to be scrapped on April 1.

Drivers will have to pay up to £5, depending on how long they park.

Many of the 132 spaces are used by people who work in Southampton and leave their vehicles there all day after catching a bus or hitching a lift with colleagues.

Cllr David Harrison, who represents Totton South, said the plan had sparked fury on the neighbouring Rushington Manor estate.

“There’s a lot of anger at the complete failure of New Forest District Council to consult with local residents and consider the likely consequences of charging for parking,”

he said.

“I predict utter chaos if charging is introduced. Many motorists will park all day on local roads rather than pay the new charges.”

Cllr Harrison is urging Cllr Edward Heron, Cabinet member for the environment, to suspend the fees and carry out an impact study.

A council spokesman said Cllr Paul Vickers, Cabinet member for planning and transport, would consider all representations before deciding whether to introduce the charges. The closing date for comments is next Wednesday.