An Ashby councillor has called for a consultation with North West Leicestershire District Council after an update was issued on the future of car parking in the town.

Cllr Pejman Zamani, a Money Hill town councillor, responded to the District Council after it said a car parking survey had attracted comments from more than 4,000 people.

The authority said it has extended its timeframe for the next phase of the project - and that the reaction would 'take longer' to analyse.

Among the suggested changes in and around Ashby are:

• Charges increased in Ashby to be in line with similar charges in neighbouring district and borough councils
• Two hours' free parking in all council car parks across the district - except Ashby - with charges applied after this
• North Street and South Street car parks in Ashby changed to become short stay
• A new long-stay car park at Money Hill in Ashby, including an electric vehicle charging hub.

But Cllr Zamani, a Market Street restaurateur, says there has been no contact with local businesses who are opposed to the suggestions.

He said: "We were informed by the District Council that no decision would be made until Ashby traders and residents have been fully consulted. 

"As a Money Hill town councillor, I insist that a full consultation between NWLDC and us - the Ashby community - takes place imminently to give adequate time - unlike other matters - so that our voice and views can be fairly heard and taken into consideration.

"This is a complex issue and should be treated as such."

North West Leicestershire District Council has been contacted for comment.