TRADERS and residents were celebrating today after winning their battle to save two car parks in one of Southampton's historic shopping areas.

Controversial plans by Southampton City Council to close and sell off the car parks at Bedford Place and Amoy Street sparked fury among local shopkeepers, who said the move would damage their business.

The proposals, revealed in the Daily Echo last month, were due to be debated at a full council meeting on Wednesday.

This morning, city Labour MPs John Denham and Dr Alan Whitehead turned out to support residents and shopkeepers in their battle to save the car parks.

Just minutes after the demonstration, however, council chiefs announced both car parks would remain open following consultation with local people.

Councillor Jill Baston, Cabinet member for environment and transport, said: "We've asked people what they want. They've said they want the car parks to remain open, and I'm happy that that is the right thing to do.

"While we can't always respond so directly to local opinion, I'm pleased that on this occasion it's really a clear-cut decision."

She added: "Our district shopping centres are very important and each has its own character. We will do whatever we can to support them, and their special nature, and the decision to allow the car parks to remain is only a part of the process to ensure that we have thriving communities across the city."

After the announcement, Southampton Itchen MP John Denham said: "If the council has backed off in the face of public pressure and the motion tabled by Labour councillors on Wednesday, that is very good news.

"I hope that it is more than a reprieve and the proposals will now be dropped."

Bargate ward councillor Richard Harris said: "It is a sensible response to the campaign. We are delighted. Clearly it's a car park that is much used and much needed. It's a shame it took a petition to get this response."

Susan Penny, proprietor of The Silver Nutmeg in Bedford Place, who organised the petition, said: "Provided it's true, and permanent, it's sensational news.

"Congratulations to the council for seeing that it made sense to keep it open. I think The Echo has done a great job in helping us with our campaign."

Roger Butterfield, 55, of the City Photgraphic shop in Bedford Place, said: "I'm really delighted. It's fantastic news."

Pensioner Jessie Fox, of Canton Street, said: "When we have visitors it would be awful if there were no car parks to accommodate them."