THE Archbishop of York has lodged his objection to proposed city centre parking restrictions.

Dr David Hope is among hundreds of people who have written to City of York Council planners to express opposition to the controversial measures.

Thousands of worshippers from various city centre churches would be forced to "pay to pray" as they would have to fork out for parking charges each time they went to church.

The Archdeacon of York, the Venerable Richard Seed, warned that if congregations were reduced further by the parking restrictions, the "viability of some of the churches would have to be reconsidered".

The Rev Roger Simpson, Vicar of St Michael-le-Belfry Church, off Duncombe Place, has sent the council a 246-name petition against the proposals - supported by nearby York Minster.

Dr Hope has thrown his backing behind their plight, saying: "Christians ought to be able to attend places of worship in the city centre without incurring parking charges."

The council has received a further four petitions from the parish church at York All Saints', St Denys' Church, Carter Jonas Property Consultants and the residents of Park Grove.

Officers received a further 123 letters of objection.

Traders in Micklegate claim the measures will decimate businesses and stop many elderly people collecting their pensions from Micklegate Post Office, as parking costs may be increased to £1.40 per hour.

Other notable objectors include Richard Brown, of the York Conservation Trust, who owns four properties in Micklegate. He says his tenants had indicated they had "no option" but to move out if the measures were accepted.

Sue Wallace, a member of St Cuthbert's Church, said vulnerable people in the congregation would have to walk long distances to make the services.

If the changes are successful, council chiefs hope to net an additional income of £505,000.

Speaking at Tuesday's full council meeting, planning and transport boss Ann Reid said all objections to proposed charges in Micklegate would be discussed at the executive meeting at 2pm on March 2.

Updated: 10:25 Thursday, February 26, 2004