SOME shoppers have reacted with fury to a steep hike in car parking prices at Market Place Shopping Centre car park.

The Bolton News reported yesterday how workers were left shocked and outraged after prices increased ­— with commuters leaving work on Friday being surprised when they scanned their tickets to find they owed £10. Previously, all day parking only cost £4.

The price change has kept the free 60 minutes, £1 charge for up to 2.5 hours, and the £2 charge for up to 3.5 hours.

It has added a charge of £3 for up to 4.5 hours, and charges £10 for any time over that.

Cinema goers only get 4.5 hours free parking. Now some shoppers are voicing their anger.

One shopper took to Facebook stating that out of town shopping centres would be the winners this Christmas. “People are not willing to pay parking so are going elsewhere or shopping online,” said another.

The car park is not council controlled ­— council controlled car parks, operated by the NCP are free at weekends and bank holidays.

An announcement is expected shortly about extending free car parking over the Christmas period.