OPPOSITION councillors were incensed after the Conservative-led Sedgemoor District Council voted in favour of price increases at two Bridgwater car parks.

Sedgemoor District Council voted to the 25 per cent rise at Dampiet Street and Market Street car parks but Labour councillors were angered by the move which they felt ‘singled’ out Bridgwater.

Councillor Mick Lerry said: “Bridgwater has been hit by roadworks, congestion and 14 per cent less footfall in the town centre as a result – so why this selective policy?

“This targeted increase is unfair and the burden should be spread across the district. These car parks are short stay and particularly useful for people with less mobility.”

Cllr Duncan McGinty, leader of Sedgemoor District Council, said: “Of course I have sympathy because no one likes increases in car park charges but we have a policy of the user pays. These are very well-liked car parks and earning more money but every cut we make only adds to our budget gap. Are we treating Bridgwater unfairly? No, we are only bringing it in line with other car parks.”

Four Conservative councillors joined the Labour opposition members in voting for a motion not to increase the charges but the majority did vote in favour of the 25 per cent rise.

Councillor Brian Smedley, leader of Bridgwater Town Council, is angry at the decision which he described as unfair.

He said: “We had argued that the town needs mitigation in the light of the impact of all the roadworks but we didn’t expect the Conservatives to take that as mitigating against us.

“We had submitted a scheme for the first two hours to be free and longer periods held at the current rates without increase. The Conservatives’ response is incredible. They have singled us out and in fact raised prices just on our car parks.

“This is particularly disappointing because we have tried to work with Sedgemoor where we can but this decision will just prove right those that say the council has no interest in Bridgwater and only cares about the rural wards, Burnham-on-Sea and Cheddar.

“Sedgemoor sets the car park fees for the whole district and they should set them fairly.”

Sedgemoor District Council has been approached for a comment.