COUNCIL staff who use their private cars for work are being hit with a new £250 annual charge to park at County Hall - even though they won't be guaranteed a space.

Somerset County Council admits scrapping free parking could lead to some employees refusing to use their own vehicles for work to avoid the permit fee, putting pressure on the authority to provide more pool cars.

It also acknowledges that some workers could resign over the issue.

A similar charge could be imposed on councillors, although it is believed they would be able to reclaim the fee on expenses.

A union boss said the charge comes after staff were awarded a one per cent pay rise, which was wiped out by the rise in National Insurance contributions in April.

UNITE branch secretary Nigel Behan added: "The chief executive on Friday praised all the staff for their hard work, then this happens. It sends the wrong message and has done nothing for staff morale.

"The decision was made by councillors, yet they are being consulted separately and a decision hasn't been taken yet as to whether they'll have to pay as well.

"The council will probably have to increase the number of pool cars it has as some people could possibly withdraw the availability of their cars for work."

Taunton resident Dave Orr has criticised the move, saying: "The unions weren't consulted properly and councillors will probably reclaim the fee on expenses if they have to pay it.

"It doesn't smack of leadership with much integrity to me."

Under the scheme, Blue Badge holders will be able to park for free, part-time staff will be charged pro rata, and car share workers, who will have to park in Burton Place, will also be charged.

But Adrienne Parry, the council's strategic manager, business support, in a report to councillors, said "there is no guarantee that a space will be available at any one time" even if staff have paid.

She added: "Those staff who benefit currently from a (free) parking permit may not need to use their cars regularly for business purposes - in effect, they therefore enjoy a benefit of between £500 and £1,300 per annum over staff without permits who have to pay for parking elsewhere.

"Due to the additional financial cost, some employees may consider looking for employment outside of Somerset County Council."

Income raised from the parking permits will be used to "improve on-site facilities and travel options for staff" and could include shower facilities.

Around 800 staff will be directly affected by the new scheme from September, with bosses saying the current system is "unfair" as staff working from 'hubs' in other areas of the county are currently charged to park.