PROPOSED increases in the cost of parking permits in Winchester is set to yield a six-figure boost to the county council.

The county council is proposing to increase the costs of residents parking permits from £22 to £50.

Income from the 2,228 residents permits would rise from £50,336 to £114,400.

Proceeds of the 1,924 visitors permits would rise from £43,328 to £96,200.

The income from the £22 permits in 2017 was £92,664. If raised to £50 the income generated would be £210,600, a net increase of around £117,000 a year.

The numbers were revealed following a question from Liberal Democrat councillor Martin Tod at a council meeting held last week.

Cllr Jan Warwick, the city council portfolio holder for environment, said the number of parking permits was set to increase as new parking zones are being introduced in Stanmore, Winnall and Weeke, to counter commuter parking. These are not yet fully operational.

Cllr Warwick said: “It is not possible to say at this time how many more permits will be purchased as result of these schemes. We are also currently consulting with residents of Highcliffe regarding possible new zones. As part of the consultation process residents are informed that the price of permits is subject to periodic review.”

Most of the city including Highcliffe, St Cross, Hyde, Fulflood and Abbots Barton has been covered by the parking zones for up to 20 years.