The decision to scrap free parking in Bolton town centre should be reversed, a scrutiny committee has recommended.
Plans to end free parking on weekends and bank holidays at three NCP car parks in the town centre have been put on hold after the decision was called in.
Labour councillor Nick Peel has now asked for the matter to be discussed at a full council meeting with the recommendation the deputy leader “rescinds” his decision to scrap the scheme.
He said: “Since 2013, when the scheme was first introduced, shoppers and visitors to the town centre have increased hugely.”
Cllr Peel requested that a cross-party “task and finish” policy development group is set up to examine the economic consequences this decision could have on the retail sector in Bolton.
His motion had the support of most councillors at a scrutiny committee meeting on Monday.
But Lib Dem councillor raised concerns about the amount of money the council has made from parking in recent years.
He said: “At one time car parking was a reasonable income stream for the council which helped us to support other parts of the highways budget.
“It has now got to the stage where it is virtually zilch in terms of income and it’s not supporting anything.
"In fact, it’s got to the stage now where the council is support car parking.”
The deputy leader will have the final say once the scrutiny process is complete.
