NEW car parking times could damage trade and tourism in Pershore, say angry civic leaders.

Town councillors criticised Wychavon District Council at a meeting last Thursday for reducing the maximum stay in the main car park from four to two hours.

The mayoress, Val Wood, said: "It is ridiculous, you cannot have a haircut and lunch in two hours."

Councillor Ray Steadman said the move could affect the future fortunes of the Number 8 Arts Centre which would rely on the car park.

"It will adversely affect the economy of the town and also users of the arts and leisure centres," he said.

Along with the reduction in the length of the maximum stay, prices have also been raised - in some cases doubled.

Coun John Grantham said the town council accepted the increases but "vigorously opposed" the reduction of the hours by half.

Brian Norfolk, head of community services at Wychavon, said: "In Pershore, 95 per cent of motorists stay for less than two hours at the High Street car park, therefore only a minority will be affected.

"The long stay car parks, both within easy walking distance of the town centre, can easily accommodate this displaced five per cent.

"The relocation of that five per cent will actually increase the number of spaces available to the majority at little inconvenience to the minority."

Town councillors resolved to write to Wychavon outlining their objections.