FREE parking could be axed in the Forest towns under controversial proposals being considered by council leaders.

The Forest of Dean District Council' s cabinet will consider introducing charges when they meet on September 8.

There was an outcry when the council considered bringing in charges in November 2008 and it sparked a major campaign.

Cabinet dropped the idea but said they would defer the matter for another time.

Councillors are now considering charging from 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday.

Parking would be free on Sunday, except in Redbrook which may have a weekend ticket.

Charges being considered are 40p for the first hour, r increasing by 30p per hour up to four hours. Over four hours £2.

Councillor Brian Robinson, cabinet member for Efficient Council and Planning Policy says it will mprove availability of spaces for people visiting the towns to use shops or access services.