PARKING charges could be introduced into a south Durham market town under a council budget review being considered next week.

Drivers could have to pay to park in the centre of Crook for the first time, while fees in Bishop Auckland would rise, if Wear Valley District councillors agree on Monday.

The measures would bring in an extra £50,000 a year to the community services department, which would save the same amount by handing over the running of Willington's Spectrum leisure centre to Wear Valley Basketball Club.

There could also be a £25,000 cut in leisure facility budgets, new £20 charges for clearing rats and mice from houses and a fee for collecting bulky items such as washing machines.

Anglers, footballers, bowlers, and other sportspeople, allotment holders and market traders would all be hit by a five per cent increase in charges, while cemetery fees and taxi fares could also rise.

And less money would be spent on litter bins, public toilets and maintaining parks and open spaces.

The department is also bidding for cash to develop its services, putting £45,000 towards a physical activity outreach programme to tackle issues such as poor health and deprivation.

A further £48,000 is wanted to replace run-down play equipment, and more than £300,000 on a new twin-bin refuse and recycling collection.

A draft report by director of central resources Gary Ridley will be considered at a meeting of the community services committee on Monday at 6pm.