Leeds City Council to introduce parking charges at popular beauty spots including Temple Newsam and Roundhay Park

Parking charges are set to be introduced at five beauty spots in Leeds and the surrounding areas.

Despite public uproar to the plans, a “modest fee” is set to be implemented to use the car parks which are currently free at numerous beauty spots.

The five sites are Otley Chevin Forest Park, Golden Acre Park, Temple Newsam, Roundhay Park and Middleton Park bike hub.

Leeds City Council have said charging is the only viable option to fund improvements to its parks given its budget shortfall, and is vital in making sure the general public can enjoy the numerous green spaces in the long term.

As well as this, the council has approved a two-hour maximum stay at Oakwood Clock car park. The new charges will be set up for £1 for up to two hours, £2.50 for the day and £4 for the full day.

In a report, the council said the introduction of fees would encourage people to walk or use public transport to visit the parks.

It said: “The reduction in car use that could potentially result as an outcome of this proposal would also contribute to cleaner, healthier air in the city.”

A spokesperson for the council said: “Following the consultation on car parking we have reviewed our options and have exhausted all alternatives to fund improvements in our parks, given the scale of challenge across the council.

“Income from car parking charges will help ensure we can continue to maintain the quality of our parks and green spaces for the people who use them.”

The charges are looking to be implemented later in the year.

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