Darlington has been branded a "ghost town" as residents react to council plans to increase parking charges in the town.

Car parking charges are set to rise to generate funds for the Darlington Borough Council, which is facing "significant" financial pressures.

This proposed change is part of the council's budget planning for 2025/26.

Many residents are unhappy about the plans and expressed worry about the future of the town. Mark Thompson said "Make the town too expensive to visit, then you won't have any customers."

Jake Lawson said: "That’s just pure greed... people struggle enough as it is without being ripped off every day."

Catherine Harrison pointed out the potential consequences, saying increasing the charges was "one way to create a ghost town."

This sentiment was echoed by several other comments, highlighting a fear that higher charges could deter shoppers.

Angela Spink argued that parking fees should be used only for maintenance: "The fee for the car park should only be used to maintain the car park."

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Residents also recalled that the removal of free parking had already affected footfall in the town.

M. Annette Ross noted: "The footfall in the town decreased as soon as they got rid of 2 hours free parking."

Meanwhile, some residents suggested alternative solutions.

Michael Hardwick proposed: "Should be free at weekends & especially the month of December."

Overall, the responses illustrate a divide in public opinion.

Many feel the increases will drive shoppers away, while others believe the council needs to generate revenue.

David Naylor said: "Why ask us. They will just do it if they want to."

Increased rates of £1.20 per hour in short stay car parks up to a cap of £5 then reverting to £1 per hour thereafter and £5 per day in long stay or £20 for a weekly ticket are among the proposed changes.

Visitors are currently charged £1 per hour in short stay and long stay car parks.

A council report stated: “This along with the additional patronage we have seen in the past year would generate an additional £500,000 per annum if introduced.

“This proposal is not taken lightly but will support ongoing provision of car parking services, highway maintenance works and highway schemes across the borough and is preferable to cutting discretionary services such as grass cutting, street cleaning, community safety and leisure provision.”