AS the congestion charge proposal was unveiled today it was revealed that plans to introduce fees to park on Sundays and evenings in Manchester have suffered a double blow.

The Greater Manchester Chamber - which originally appeared supportive - backtracked after chief executive Angie Robinson said the plans were `causing businesses a great deal of concern'.

In a further blow, it is understood that Labour city centre supremo Coun Pat Karney also has serious concerns about weekend parking charges, which could mean drivers having to cough up to é2.20 an hour for on-street bays.

When the proposals were first mooted earlier this month, Sarah Johnson, the Chamber's transport policy executive, said: "We welcome the move to help shoppers and visitors find short stay parking spaces more easily, as it has the potential to benefit business."

But after urgent talks at the Chamber, Ms Robinson said last night: "We have yet to find any members who are welcoming this."

The strongest criticism is coming from shops, bars and restaurants who believe staff will be put off working weekends.

Members also argue that trade could suffer as customers are put off travelling to the city centre.

Views

The Chamber, which has 7,000 members, will now tell the council its views as part of the consultation process.

Ms Robinson said: "Members feel the process is on a tight time deadline. We would want the council to take their time when considering the responses and next time if there's anything like this hold discussions beforehand to look at options and alternatives."

Thousands of people have contacted the M.E.N. website to complain while hundreds have contacted the council directly.

The council says the changes are necessary to tackle congestion and to free up bays.

Coun Neil Swannick, the city's parking chief, has said no final decision will be made until the consultation closes on Friday.

Do you support free city centre parking at weekends and evenings? Have your say.