LAUNCESTON councillors and campaigners have won the battle to save affordable parking charges in the town.

Cornwall Council had proposed to scrap the town's £1 all day Saturday and £1 for two parking, as well as putting up season ticket prices to more than £300.

The plans provoked a furious reaction and saw people submit hundreds of consultation responses — more than any other town.

Liberal Democrat Jade Farrington, who represents Launceston South on Cornwall Council, said: "Launceston's Cornwall Councillors all fought very hard to get cheap prices introduced back when charges were excessive and the car parks were badly underused.

"We know what a disaster reverting to them would have been for low-paid workers and for the shops and businesses which are fighting back and starting to enjoy growth again after a tough economic period.

"The £1 all-day Saturday parking in particular has helped boost footfall and meant that people can support the increasing number of markets, festivals, fairs and other events now being organised in our town."

Cllr Farrington, along with fellow Cornwall Councillors Alex Folkes and Adam Paynter, challenged the authority's proposals and put forward a counter-set of charges which gained the backing of Launceston Town Council and the chamber of commerce.

The result is that £1 all-day Saturday parking is being retained in the long stay car parks and it will still be possible to park for two hours for £1 on weekdays in the long stay car parks.

A new £2 all-day rate is also being introduced in the Cattle Market long stay car park to encourage shoppers to stay longer and to help commuters park cheaply. For regular users, cheap annual season tickets are available for £110 or £215 depending on the car park.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.