Sefton Council has set out its parking charges for areas including Southport, Formby, Crosby and Bootle for the next financial year.
The charges for 2021/2022 have been maintained at current levels, with the council fearing that any increase by either inflation or a higher amount “could stifle economic recovery post Covid-19”.
The charges, usually part of the Budget process, have been approved ahead of councillors meeting to debate the Budget next week.
In the inner Southport town centre area, charges range from just 80p for up to half an hour to £5 for up to 4 hours.
In the outer town centre area, charges are the same but with the additional ability to park for over four hours for £7.
Southport Esplanade Park and Ride remains £2 all day Monday to Saturday with £5 parking Sunday; Southport Seawall is £1.10 up to one hour, £4.30 over one hour.
Formby Pool remains £1 up to one hour, £2 two hours, £4.50 up to four hours.
In his report to councillors, Sefton Council Head of Highways and Public Protection Peter Moore wrote: “The fees and charges could be increased by inflation (or a higher amount) but it is felt that this could stifle economic recovery post COVID 19.”
He added: “The Council sets fees and charges on an annual basis for a variety of services provided to the public and businesses.
“Each year these fees and charges are reviewed to consider any revisions and the possible introduction of further legitimate fees or charges for services provided which would be in addition to statutory Council services and which could be charged to recover staff time.
“In reviewing fees and charges several factors have been considered, including the cost to the Council of providing the service, the impact of inflation on those costs, any impact on the wider service, and the impact of any increases or new fees/charges on service recipients.
“This year we have also sought to consider the additional impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on service recipients.
“It is proposed to maintain current levels of fees and charges in 2021/22.”
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