Candidates for the upcoming Farnham Castle by-election have pledged to take action against Waverley’s car parking charge increases.

Ticket prices at car parks run by Waverley Borough Council increased by 12 per cent on average on April 1.

Charges also now apply until 10pm instead of 6.30pm – and all-day parking in some town centre car parks including Farnham’s Central and Haslemere’s High Street rose to an eye-watering £26.

The increase has been a hot topic on social media with some complaining that ticket machines have charged even more than the published amounts.

Alan Earwaker, the current mayor of Farnham and Farnham Residents candidate, has highlighted Waverley’s car parking increases as one of his six priorities if elected.

Cllr Earwaker said: “If elected, I will campaign within Waverley to remove the unwanted and unwarranted evening charges from Farnham’s car parks.

“I will also campaign to protect free Sunday parking recognising the benefits to those on low incomes who choose to shop on Sundays.

“In my opinion, the future of Farnham’s car parks and charges should be seen as part of a wider review of sustainable transport policy.”

Conservative candidate Aly Fitch also spoke against the charges as she believes it will threaten “the very essence” of the town.

Aly said: “This isn’t just about wallets; it’s about the prosperity of our local businesses.

“We cannot afford to penalise residents and visitors for utilising our streets.

“I will refuse to let these measures ruin our community’s heartbeat.

“I pledge to put our people first and focus on reinvigorating our town and find ways to support our local businesses.”

Other candidates for the by-election include Labour’s John Gaskell and Liberal Democrats’ Theresa Meredith-Hardy.

The Waverley Borough Council by-election will be held on Thursday, April 18 from 7am to 10pm.