DRIVERS in Clevedon could soon need more change in their pocket to pay for the privilege of parking in the town during the winter months.

DRIVERS in Clevedon could soon need more change in their pocket to pay for the privilege of parking in the town during the winter months.

A review of off-street parking fees for 2008 and 2009 has proposed altering charges at two sites in the town.

Car parks in The Hawthorns and at the Salthouse Fields currently only have charges that apply between April 1 and October 31.

However, if proposals from North Somerset Council are approved drivers will have to pay all year round.

Between November 1 and March 31, parking for up to four hours will cost 50p and an all day charge will be £1. There will be no charge after 4pm.

The costs of parking in the summer will also be altered if the review, which was presented at a meeting of North Somerset Council's executive on January 15, is implemented.

There are also plans to change some of the restrictions that apply at Marsons Road car park in Clevedon and Nore Road and Roath Road car parks in Portishead. This will mean such things as waiting times and excess charges.

Members agreed the review in principle but a consultation has to take place before changes can be made.

At the meeting Councillor Nan Kirsen criticised the report for not providing any additional benefits for disabled drivers, who are currently given an hour free after their paid-for ticket expires.

What do you think about the new charges? Write in to the Times, 32 Waterloo Street, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1LW.