SCORES of angry residents are protesting against possible permit price increases that could double the cost of parking outside homes in York.

Micklegate ward councillor Sandy Fraser handed a petition to City of York Council's ruling executive, calling for proposed increases in the Respark scheme charges to be scrapped.

The 72 signatures were collected in the Bishophill area of York.

Coun Fraser said the charges would affect most seriously those people living in inner city areas, where the majority of Respark schemes are.

He said: "There is very little choice over where to park for inner city residents, especially in terraced areas where there is no off-street parking.

"It would be a tax and would have a disproportionate effect. This council has a proud record of consultation when major change takes place, but with this there has been no opportunity for consultation."

Executive members voted to double the cost of a resident's permit from £42 to £84. The other choices were for increasing it to £52 or £104.

Coun Ann Reid, the council's executive member for planning and transport, has previously denied the increases were a tax.

At yesterday's meeting, she highlighted discounts that would be made available for people who choose to drive cars of 2.7 metres in length or smaller.

A Respark discount of 50 per cent would be available for drivers of these vehicles - though this would only bring the cost of a permit down to its current level.

Car park discounts of 50 per cent will also be available to drivers of smaller cars.

Green councillor Andy D'Agorne spoke to the executive in support of the increased prices and small car discounts.

"This is very welcome. The current situation is unsustainable," Coun D'Agorne said.

The Respark price increases have been "called in" by the opposition Labour group and so will be debated in more detail at tomorrow's strategic policy panel meeting.

Proposed increases in car parking charges will also be discussed by the policy panel.

Proposals to paint double yellow lines in several historic York city centre streets were deferred by the executive.

Updated: 10:50 Wednesday, December 17, 2003