Parking charges to be introduced at Sandwell Valley Country Park
Visitors will be charged to park at Sandwell Valley Country Park for the first time after councillors agreed to bring in the new measures.
Parking has always been free at the West Bromwich attraction but visitors could now find themselves paying £2 if they want to stay for more than four hours.
Sandwell Council said the change was necessary to ensure funds could be generated for the upkeep of the site and new attractions including a restaurant, as cash would otherwise have to be used from existing budgets that are already stretched due to Government cuts.
The move is expected to make £200,000 but the council insists the money will be used only for the maintenance of the park.
The council's cabinet, chaired by leader Darren Cooper, approved the changes on Wednesday.
Visitors will be charged 40p for an hour, 80p for two hours, £1.20 for three hours and £1.60 for four hours. Anything above four hours will cost £2. The charges will apply between 9am and 6pm. Parking after 6pm will be free.
