Hundreds of disgruntled drivers have signed a petition against proposed parking charges at Minnis Bay.

More than 1,000 people have come forward to object to Thanet District Council’s suggested fees on The Parade.

Parking at the popular bay is free, but this could soon no longer be the case – should the council get its way.

It is just one of a long list of places across the district upon which the council wishes to impose charges.

The petition tackling TDC’s proposal was set up by Nick Blankley, who slams the idea – calling it “unnecessary, unjustified, ill-informed, contradictory and undemocratic”.

He said: “The council promotes Minnis Bay as a destination for leisure and family activities.

“The proposed charges would be a deterrent to visitors and a levy on those who wish to walk, cycle, sail, windsurf, fish, use a beach hut or simply have a family day at the beach.”

Mr Blankley also brands the proposal “opportunistic” and “arbitrary”.

“There is no business case to support the proposed charges and there is no evidence, as required under the legislation, to support suggestions of problems at Minnis Bay with congestion, traffic flow or turnover,” he added.

“The proposal is opportunistic and the proposed charges are arbitrary.”

His views resonate too with those who have signed the petition.

One local who signed wrote: “This just stops people visiting and contributing to the local area.”, while another highlighted the impact it would have on more narrow side streets.

They said: “I am very concerned as to the impact this will have on the side roads.

“I’m a local resident and have many cars parking in front of my home in summer.

“I feel if these charges are imposed this will get worse as people will try to avoid paying the high parking charges.

“This is very much a local beach for local community and £12 a day is unbelievably high.”

But the council has defended its proposal, saying “an extensive review” was undertaken.

A spokesman for TDC said: “The proposed changes to parking around the district are open to statutory consultation.

“Anyone who wishes to make a representation in relation to the proposed order, should do so in writing by noon on Tuesday, May 29.

“All the feedback we receive from residents and local businesses will be taken into consideration.

“These charges were approved by members at the end of last year and were the outcome of an extensive review of parking provision and demands across Thanet.

“It is hoped that charging will help on-street spaces turnover at an appropriate rate and additional income generated will be used to help maintain our current parking stock and ensure we can invest in future technological solutions like automated number plate registrations, solar power and smart parking.”

A final decision will be made following the consultation.

The proposed change would see pay-and-display parking at £1.50-an-hour on The Parade from 10am until 6pm everyday from April 1 to October 31 inclusive.

It would be on both sides of the road from the entrance to the Minnis Bay car park to the entrance of McKinlay Court.

A full list of suggested changes can be found on the council’s website.

The petition can be found at www.change.org.