COUNCIL leaders are backing new parking charges in Southampton after dismissing objections from business leaders, motorists and residents.

The Tory Cabinet last night agreed to extend charges in the city centre from 8am to 6pm, instead of 8.30am to 5.30pm, and to introduce a £2 overnight charge for the city's five multi-storey car parks.

Council leader Alec Samuels claimed the changes, attacked by political opponents as a U-turn, were "comparatively minor" and consistent with overall policy.

But the Southampton and Fareham Chamber of Commerce accused the council of rushing through the charges ahead of a review of the car parking strategy, to be published shortly.

In a final plea the chamber's Kristine Salomon-Olsen warned councillors the charges could deter flexible working hours and harm Southampton's night-time economy by hitting visitors to attractions such as The Mayflower theatre. She said it could also hinder Southampton's reputation as a top retail destination.

Mrs Salomon-Olsen also criticised the level of consultation compared with recent parking changes in Fareham. But transport bosses said notices asking for comments met legal requirements and they were not convinced by objections made.

The new charges will raise an additional £115,000 a year on top of the council's £7.3m car parking revenue.

Councillor Gavin Dick, Cabinet member for transport, said: "Any money we make will be put back into the roads."

The new charges will come in by the end of the month.