CONTROVERSIAL car parking charges in north Oxfordshire will be reviewed after councillors demanded a rethink.

Conservative-controlled Cherwell District Council increased charges and ended free evening, Sunday, bank holiday and disabled parking in April.

But traders and residents have criticised the move and council officers will now look into concerns about the impact of the higher fees on trade in town centres, particularly in Bicester.

Kieron Mallon, chairman of the council’s overview and scrutiny committee, said: “During the past few months we have listened carefully to what the public have told us, both directly and through the media, and we feel there is scope for some changes.

“We think there are some very valid concerns and believe it’s absolutely the job of scrutiny to ensure they are addressed.”

He added: “It’s not possible to say at this stage what form the changes might take but I’m confident that we will be able to consider some valid suggestions next month.”

The committee agreed the move on Tuesday. Officers will report back to councillors next month.

Any proposals for changes will then go to the council’s executive.

Dr Marie Mullier, of Coltsfoot Leys, Bicester, who was fined £50 for overstaying in April because she said she did not see the new charges, said the system was not working.

She said: “I’m very pleased they have decided to review it. You can see the car parks are half-full. The prices have put people off.”