FREE Sunday parking in town centre car parks owned by Harrow Council is to be abolished.

Notices warning motorists about the planned imposition of parking charges on Sundays have been displayed in the car parks affected in Greenhill Way and Gayton Road. The move does not affect on-street parking or the privately-run car parks at the St Ann's and St George's centres.

A council spokesman said: "There is not a great deal of difference between Sunday and other days of the week, and we do not see why one day should be free when on the other days we charge.

"The principle reason behind charging is that some people leave their cars in the car parks all day as they know it is free and they do not necessarily shop. This affects local traders as the space could be used by shoppers."

The spokesman pointed out that neighbouring town centre shopping centres in Watford and Uxbridge already charge for Sunday parking.

The proposal is open to consultation and anyone who objects should write to the environment department at the Civic Centre.

May 1, 2003 10:30