SOUTHEND councillors will have to give up free parking in council-owned car parks under plans to balance the books.

Councillors have enjoyed the perk of free parking for decades.

However, they must relinquish the benefit as part of the council’s budget plans.

Council officers say in a budget report: “Members currently receive a parking permit free of charge. This proposal is to charge for those parking permits.”

Other parking fees are proposed in the  council's budget, described as the toughest for decades.

People parking at some parks and dog walking spots which are currently free will now a parking charge.

These include Jones Memorial Ground on Eastern Avenue, Gunners Park in Shoebury and a Rayleigh Road car park.

There will also be new parking charges for stays beyond two hours at four main parks from 2024/25.

Parking at Chalkwell Park, Westcliff, Priory Park, Southend and Belfairs Park, Leigh and Southchurch Park will be free for the first two hours but drivers will be charged after that.

Parking permit holders also face the 10 per cent increase in the cost of permits and the cost of the Southend Pass will rise from £8.50 to £10 per month.