A CITY councillor is challenging car parking charges in Truro.

Bert Biscoe, who is directing his attack at Carrick district council and has written a letter to chief executive John Winskill, said: "Is the city here to serve the interests of the council, or the council here to serve the interests of the town?"

In advance of a Carrick budget meeting he has demanded to know what research the authority has done to find out whether the proposed 40 per cent hike (from £0.70 to £1 per hour) will help trade and business. "Truro is now perceived as being a place which is both expensive and difficult to park in. The town relies for its success on two things: a varied and strong mix of services and retailing set in a pleasant and compact environment and accessibility," he said in his letter to Mr Winskill.

"I would be grateful if you would let me know what detailed analysis has been undertaken by the council. For instance, has the council undertaken an economic 'health-check' this year?"