It looks as if B&NES Council officials would really like to introduce parking charges to Midsomer Norton and Radstock. Their car parking profits have been falling for some years, but they fear to put prices up as it may make things even worse.

They say in a report to Councillors, "Outside of Bath, the charges for parking are significantly lower or free.

"One of the reasons for this anomaly is due to pressure placed on the Council to keep low cost or free parking to ensure the competiveness of the town centres.

"However, it is generally accepted that the reason for visits to town centres are rarely, if ever, affected by parking charges and the retail or facilities on offer are the biggest issue for the public choosing to or not to visit. Additionally, free unrestricted parking generally is filled by those who are staying for long periods, reducing the opportunity for visitors to park, damaging trade.

"Therefore, consideration will be given to all free parking areas to ensure that the management regime is appropriate for the location, with the option of implementing charges where necessary to resolve this issue at a level that is appropriate for the location."

This report, which could be regarded as giving a green light to officials to charge in Midsomer Norton and Radstock, is to be considered by Councillors today, Thursday, 26th July.

The news has sounded alarm bells amongst Midsomer Norton's Conservative Councillors, who have vowed to fight any proposal which would prove damaging to the town's economy. They argue that free parking supports local businesses.