THE future of parking in Rayleigh town centre is shaping up as a key issue in the upcoming county council elections.

Chris Black, Lib Dem group leader on Rochford District Council, has called for a rethink to ensure the survival of the town.

Mr Black is standing in Rayleigh North for Essex County Council this year, against Tory incumbent Stephen Castle.

Mr Black said he would like to see a cheap rate parking period of 30 or 40 minutes, rather than the current £1 for two hours rate.

He wants weekly parking charges finishing at 6pm rather than 7pm, and ticket machines which give change, if the pay-and-display system continues.

Change machines have not been available in the past, but Mr Black said a company had started making them in February.

He said: “What the public really want to see is a pay-on-exit system at Websters Way car park, so shoppers don’t have to worry about running out of time.

“These changes would all cost some money, but the district council makes a profit of around £800,000 a year from its car parks.”

Mr Castle said: “I put forward the idea of pay-on-exit parking ten years ago.

“I still believe it would be the right way for the district council to go.

“Last year, I suggested there should be a cheap parking rate for half an hour.

“I was very disappointed when the district council did not agree with it.

“I am very pleased Chris Black has now caught up with the things I have been arguing for.”

The other candidates standing for the seat are: D Bodimeade (Lab), L Byrne (BNP), J Hayter (Eng Dem) and T Smith (Say No to European Union).