CAR parking charges in Tavistock town centre came under the spotlight during a meeting in the town last week.

Cllr Mandy Govier told town council committee members that fees in the Guildhall Car Park, which is owned by the council, had not been raised for the last six years.

Cllr Govier said: 'I wonder if this could be an opportunity to come in line with West Devon Borough Council's rates?

'I think it's something we ought to discuss — I think it's good to keep the fees lower but if you have a policy it ought to be kept under review — at least then we can say it was brought forward and we have discussed it.'

Cllr Harry Smith, chairman of the council's finance department, said: 'If we have charges, we should review them.'

Cllr David Whitcomb said councils often increased their car parking charges to raise extra revenue.

'I think it would be very good for Tavistock Town Council to keep the fees as they are, unless we actually need the money,' he said.

Cllr Robin Pike, mayor of Tavistock, proposed the council review charges in its car parks in another two years.

His proposal was carried unanimously by the finance committee — the decision was due to be ratified by the full council when it met on Tuesday evening.

Fees in the car park are 30p for half an hour and 60p for a full hour.

Town clerk Roger Howard said: 'It's very much a short stay car park — the idea is to get shoppers to use it and leave quickly. As long as there is that quick turn-around, it's very useful.

'And of course, when the police finally move, there will be another eight spaces available to the public.'