VISITORS to a popular park in Brentwood face paying more to park.

Starting on April 1 next year, users of Thorndon Country Park will have to spend £3, an extra 80p, at the car parks on site over the summer.

The increase set by Essex County Council who run the park will also see motorists have to pay £2.50 from November 1 to March 31.

Parking at Weald Country Park will also rise to £2.50 all year, an increase of 30p.

Lib Dem Brentwood South county councillor David Kendal said: “I am very disappointed to see the Tories at County Hall putting up the car park charges.

“I will be asking a number of questions at County regarding these charges and for residents to be properly consulted before any charges are implemented.”

County Council bosses said the changes had been well considered and the increased fees are in line with the Retail Price Index.

A spokesman said: “The County Council is committed in continuing to deliver its services while making savings of £215million over the next three years, due to reductions in central government funding. 

“The announcement, regarding the review of car parking charges, comes at a time when ECC is in a period of transformation and is actively identifying opportunities to operate differently in a bid to reduce costs and maintenance liability.

“The proposed seasonal variation at Thorndon is greater due to the enhanced customer offer at these parks.”