Leek's Labour councillors have called for a rethink of plans to increase parking charges in the town after a petition against the changes received over 2,000 signatures in just a few days.

Leek Nub News reported previously how car parking charges in Leek are to increase after plans were approved by Staffordshire Moorlands District Councillors.

Despite the increased fees, short stays of up to 30 minutes will be made free in some of the town's car parks.

However, fees will now be charged from 8am - 6pm, meaning an end to the free parking the town has previously enjoyed after 3.30pm, in a move that has not been popular with some residents.

Since being created last week (Thursday 10th February) a petition against the changes has already received over 2,200 signatures.

Now Leek's Labour councillors have called for a "rethink" of the changes.

Councillor Mike Gledhill said on behalf of the council's Labour group: "One of the most important responsibilities of being a councillor is to make sure that the views of people you represent are made known to The Council.

"The public response to The SMDC Cabinet's proposed changes to car parks in Leek has been clear in recent days since they became public knowledge. A rethink is needed. We will do our best to represent your views in the hope of achieving a better solution for our town.

"Following the overwhelming public reaction to the Conservative controlled Council's proposed changes to car park regulations in the town, Leek Labour Councillors are now urging The Cabinet to think again at this sensitive time, given the difficulties of the last two years for residents and businesses. They must listen to the people.

"It is a step too far to extend chargeable hours with the idea of a 'free half hour' in some but not all town car parks. Significant changes to the present arrangements should at least be delayed for 12 months.

"The ruling Conservatives have the numbers in council to force the changes through but they should take note. Over 2000 people have signalled their objections in the petition. The proposed changes should not be rushed through.

"If the changes do go ahead, Labour has secured an agreement that a review should take place during the first year to assess the impact on businesses in the town."

The district council has also since responded to Nub News's request for comment.

Councillor Andrew Hart, Cabinet member for Property and Tourism at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council said: "The Council carried out wide consultation with a variety of individuals and groups last year as part of its review of the parking strategy and the measures to be introduced reflect the need to balance a number of elements to ensure our facilities are modernised and reflect what people told us during the consultation.

"For the first time, the Council will be introducing free parking periods at certain car parks to support short trips into town centres. Other improvements including increasing the options for payment to offer digital payment options as well as cash and reviewing permits so they are better suited to customer needs. These improvements come at a cost. The Council does not make profit from the charges – the money is used to improve the facilities for the benefit of our residents, businesses and visitors.

"The tariffs for charging will be considered by the full Council at the budget setting meeting on 23 February and, if agreed, it will be the first time in four years that parking charges have changed."