MP hits out at 185% station parking price hike

The current Corby station opened in 2009 - the original was built in 1879 but closed in 1966

An MP has criticised plans to increase parking charges at a railway station by up to 185%.

Lee Barron said the proposal would impose "a significant and sudden financial burden on users" of Corby station.

The Labour MP for Corby said he hoped there would be a "a genuine consultation" on the plan "rather than the council simply sharing a decision which has already been taken".

North Northamptonshire Council (NCC) said the move would bring the facility "in line with the lowest priced station parking charges in the area".

The council has proposed increasing the daily charge at the car park from £3.50 to £10.00.

A weekly pass would rise from £14 to £30, and a monthly ticket would hit the £100 barrier, up from £45.

Three months of parking would cost £270 rather than the current £120, and a pass for a whole year - available now for £390 - would attract a £1,000 charge.

Following initial feedback, the council added an off-peak rate rate of £5 for 10:00 to 14:30 weekdays and on weekends and bank holidays.

Lee Barron MP wants a "genuine consultation" on the increases

Mr Barron, who won the Corby seat in July, has written to the council and said the proposed daily charge would be "a massive increase of 185%".

"Similar proposals to increase weekly, monthly, 3-monthly, and annual passes, represent a significant and sudden financial burden on rail station users," he said.

"Constituents have been in touch to share their concerns regarding affordability, economic impact, inclusivity, environmental impact, and pressure on parking spaces."

He added that he hoped the council was running a genuine consultation exercise.

Mark Pengelly, leader of Corby Town Council, said: "A steep rise in charges will hit people in the pocket in these difficult times, force users to go direct to other stations and or park on the local streets causing congestion."

Corby railway station has 150 parking spaces

One woman, commenting on social media, said: "How they can justify that much of a increase... or is it just another money spinner for NCC?

"Where will all the extra money go to?"

Matt Binley, Conservative-controlled NNC's executive member for travel, said: "The proposals would bring Corby station in line with the lowest priced station parking charges in the area and we have considered all options very carefully before going out to consultation on proposed rises.”

The consultation closes on 3 November.