Devon County Council is to revisit proposals to raise parking charges after a group of councillors raise concerns that the increased fees would annihilate local traders.

Dawlish councillor Rosie Dawson led a ‘call in’ of the decision, made last month, to increase Devon County Council on-street parking fees.

In Dawlish, Newton Abbot and Teignmouth the proposed parking charges would see increases of between 10% and nearly 40%

Parking areas affected include: The Strand, Brunswick Place and Marine Parade in Dawlish; Newton Abbot town centre, Courtenay Park and Forde Park; and the Den, Promenade, Lower Brook Street and Wellington Street in Teignmouth.

‘At a time when traders are struggling and businesses are closing, increasing the costs of visiting areas to contribute to the local economy seems counterproductive,’ the call-in stated. ‘Increases may be necessary, but it is felt these can be fairer, more considerate of local needs and not as substantial in one hit.’

A ‘call-in’ is a procedure where councillors can request a review of a council decision. The decision is then referred to a scrutiny committee, which will decide if the decision is fair and aligns with the council’s principles.

The call-in was supported by councillors David Cox (Teignmouth), Alan Connett (Exminster and Haldon), Syed Jusuf (Barnstaple North) and Ed Tyldesley (Chulmleigh and Landkey).

The call-in on parking charges will be considered at the next ordinary meeting of the Devon County Council Corporate Infrastructure and Regulatory Services Scrutiny Committee on November 20.

Most of Teignbridge’s pay and display car parks are operated by Teignbridge District Council or private companies, while on-street car parking is administered by Devon County Council.