A POOLE opposition councillor has criticised the ruling Tory cabinet for their "lack of concern" about the negative impact recent car parking hikes are having on Broadstone.

Cllr Mike Brooke presented his concerns to the cabinet at a meeting last week and called for the new parking charges, which were introduced in April, to be scrapped.

Poole council increased parking charges at Story Lane car park in Broadstone from 40p to £1 for a one hour stay.

It was one of a number of district car parks across the borough which saw a hike in charges. Others included Ashley Road, Ashley Cross, Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill.

To park for two hours will now cost £1.50, then £3.50 for three.

Cllr Brooke says that the new charges have had a real impact on Broadstone.

During the cabinet meeting he told members there had been a "significant decline" in usage of both car parks since the introduction of the new charging regime, with spaces available throughout the day, every day, including at peak times.

He also said traders were reporting reduced footfall and decline in income. One trader in particular had experienced a 25 per cent drop in receipts in April, immediately following the hike in charges, said Cllr Brooke.

He also said that the closure of Budgens supermarket earlier this month was another blow for the high street - with shoppers choosing to go elsewhere.

During his presentation Cllr Brooke called for the new charges to be scrapped and for free weekend parking. He also called for a review in six months.

Cabinet member for transport Ian Potter agreed to meet with Cllr Brooke to discuss the impact of the charges, but Cllr Brooke argued this was not enough.

He said: “It was appalling how unconcerned cabinet members appeared.

“There was absolutely no discussion of the issues or my proposal. All I was offered was a meeting sometime in the future ‘when the new pricing structure has had time to bed in’.

"This should be a priority. I provided evidence to show there had been an impact from day one, but all I got back from the portfolio holder was “we need more data over a longer period of time but I am happy to meet”.

"Another three months could be too late for some traders. All I asked for was for them to give our local businesses support through these next few months."