SUNDAY parking charges will start in central Winchester next year, civic chiefs decided.

A £2 flat fee will be payable in short stay car parks as the city council tries to combat falling parking income.

As previously reported in the Daily Echo the proposal has already sparked criticism from traders’ groups, churches and Hampshire Farmers’ Markets.

However, the Lib Dem Cabinet backed the changes when its members examined the plans yesterday.

Councillor Eleanor Bell, Cabinet member for high quality environment, said they hoped to raise £110,000.

Charges from Monday to Saturday would stay the same, and free parking would be available on Sundays outside the city centre.

Before the meeting, concerns were raised by Winchester Business Improvement District and the North Hampshire branch of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce.

Winchester Family Church also asked if the 10am start for Sunday charging could be delayed until noon.