CAR parking charges will increase by an average of 20p from Monday (June 1) when new summer tariffs come into force in West Somerset Council-owned car parks across the district.

Cllr Karen Mills, whose portfolio includes car parking, said the council had frozen parking charges for the last three years to limit the impact on local people during the economic downturn.

"However, following the annual review of costs and charges for council services, we are introducing a small increase during the summer months.

"Local residents and business customers can still access significant discounts for parking through buying seasonal permits which can be very cost effective," she said.

Shoppers can still buy special permits to reduce the cost of parking fees.

The shoppers' parking permit, which costs £35 for 12 months, is still available to buy from the authority.

It covers the period from April 1 to March 31 and gives two hours' parking in Alexandra Road, Warren Road Upper, Clanville, Quay West and North Road in Minehead; Anchor Street, West Pier and Market Street in Watchet; Central in Williton; Dunster Steep and Central in Porlock.

Application forms are available online at http://www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk">www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk or from the council's offices in Minehead and Williton.

"The shopper permits are very popular with almost 500 issued already this year," said Cllr Mills.