AXING free parking in Colchester could raise more than £55,000 a year, it has been revealed.

The North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) is looking at implementing a new pay and display system across the city.

It would see the axing of various free parking spots, alongside changes to some permit parking.

It is thought that across Colchester and Dedham, an average of £50,559 would be made annually if the proposed sites became pay and display.

A higher estimate predicts an income of £55,448.

Gazette: Pay and display - Various free parking sites in Colchester would be axed under the plansPay and display - Various free parking sites in Colchester would be axed under the plans (Image: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire)

The popular free spots in Colchester that could become pay and display include Middleborough, St John’s Green, as well as Military Road and Kendall Road.

Brook Street in Dedham is also being eyed up as part of the proposed scheme.

Other roads touted for change in Colchester are permit-only parking in Clarendon Way and Oxford Road.

It is estimated a total of between £140,000 and £190,000 will be made overall, with similar plans outlined for roads in Braintree, Witham, Halstead, Harlow and Epping Forest.

City centre councillor Steph Nissen previously slammed the plans, dubbing it “another tax on residents”.

Gazette: Frustrated - Colchester city centre councillor Steph NissenFrustrated - Colchester city centre councillor Steph Nissen (Image: Newsquest)

Colchester residents were also disappointed at the proposals, with one saying it is a “kick in the teeth”.

NEPP says the primary aim of the project is not to generate income but to provide efficient traffic management, working to manage parking and improve traffic flow.

“While revenue from paid parking may help cover the increasing costs of patrol and enforcement, any surplus is reinvested back into essential traffic management initiatives,” a spokesman added.

No final decision on whether the schemes will be implemented has yet been made, with an enhanced consultation set to take place “at the appropriate stage”.

A statutory formal consultation of 21 days will also take place.

The final decision is set to be made at the Joint Committee Meeting on June 20.

A NEPP spokesperson said: “The report estimates potential annual income from the proposed sites.

"However, these figures are indicative only.

“Further consultations, both enhanced and statutory, may necessitate adjustments to fees and charges.

“Additionally, some proposed sites may not be implemented.”