CAMPAIGNERS fighting plans to introduce parking charges at a Harden beauty spot have vowed not to give-up their battle.

A full Bradford Council meeting last week decided to refer the proposals, for the St Ives estate, to its executive.

But Friends of St Ives chairman, Pam Laking, who addressed the meeting, said afterwards the points made in defence of the controversial measures were unfounded.

And she has called on the council to enter dialogue with the group.

"It was stated in the meeting that other local authorities such as Leeds charged for parking at similar country parks but it's simply not true," said Mrs Laking.

"Our research has found no evidence to back this up.

"The council hasn't responded to any of the points we have raised and won't speak with us – it's so frustrating. There has been no proper consultation.

"They say there are sometimes problems with parking at St Ives because it's so busy – but surely the answer is to provide more space to park, rather than introduce charges. The statement is an acceptance that the introduction of fees would affect visitor numbers.

"We want the council to talk to us about the issues we have raised and read the many letters submitted by objectors."

Under the proposals, motorists would be charged every day – including bank holidays – between 8am and 6pm.

The fee would be £1 for up to two hours, £2 for up to four hours and £3 beyond that.

Mrs Laking said that as well as deterring visitors, charges would have an environmental impact and be difficult to police.

There would be three pay-and-display machines, plus signage.

"The Friends of St Ives have worked very hard over the last 14 years with Bradford Council to encourage many more visitors," added Mrs Laking.

"If this proposal is implemented, there would be an enormous amount of damage done to visitor enjoyment and numbers and the education and enrichment of many young people."

A petition against the proposals, signed by 5,592 people, was presented to the council meeting.

The council said it sent out consultation letters about its proposals, which were agreed at a budget meeting earlier this year.

A spokesman added: "There have been significant reductions to the council’s budget. Government funding for Bradford Council services has been cut by £167.5 million since 2010, with an estimated reduction of funding of £100 million by 2020.

"This means some difficult decisions have to be made on how to reduce costs while increasing income."