BUSINESS leaders in Malton are calling for a rethink over plans to increase parking charges by 25 per cent.

They fear that Ryedale District Council's move to earn an extra £125,000 to help balance the council's budget will damage the town's economy.

Roddy Bushell, manager of the largest town centre property owner, the Fitzwilliam Estate, said he feared shoppers would travel to Monks Cross in York, where parking was free. "This increase will be a tax which will have a very significant effect on shops." A meeting is planned next week."