FREE car parking at Brookmans Park Station is set to end, raising fears of congestion in the village from commuters parking on the streets.

Welwyn Hatfield Council, which has provided free parking for commuters at Brookmans Park for about 30 years, has rejected a demand from train operator WAGN to nearly double the annual rent it charges from £7,500 to £14,000.

Councillor Mandy Perkins, executive member for the environment, said: "We cannot justify paying such a huge amount annually.

"We are concerned however that if WAGN introduces charging more motorists will decide to park in neighbouring roads and cause congestion and disruption in the village."

As well as the rent increase, the train operating company asked the council to pay for improvements to the 60-space car park, and said it could not guarantee an extension of the lease beyond 2004 when its rail franchise expires.

August 21, 2002 14:00