CONTROVERSIAL charges to park on Oxford’s streets are set to be introduced despite a public backlash.

Oxfordshire County Council plans to reinstate on-street charges in the city centre on Sundays and in the evenings.

A flat rate of £2.50 will be charged on popular city centre streets including St Giles and Broad Street in the evening, and Sunday charges will be the same as current Saturday fees.

The council is set to haul in £600,000 a year from the fees as it battles to save £119m over four years after having its grant cut by the Government.

The council removed the need to pay and display at these times in 2005 in a bid to stimulate the local economy.

Tomorrow, the councillor responsible for transport, Rodney Rose, is recommended to approve charges despite overwhelming opposition during a public consultation.

Of 246 responses, 245 objected to the plans and one was in favour.

High profile opponents have included clergymen, who believe it will hit congregation numbers and the Oxford Playhouse theatre, whose bosses fear it will act as a disincentive for people to visit the theatre.

County officers say a “churchgoers” permit is unworkable. Mr Rose said he was not surprised the plan was unpopular but added: “We have to achieve savings of £119m.”