PARKING fines are set to increase by FIFTY per cent -- and there are fears that the rise could drive shoppers away from Bolton's prestigious shopping centre.

Motorists now face illegal parking penalty charges of £60 instead of £40.

Council chiefs are acting on the recommendation of government guidelines, but in an attempt to soften the blow for motorists they have decided to "freeze" the cost of parking in local authority car parks until April 2003.

The move follows concerns over a possible loss in trade raised by Bolton's Town Centre Company and businesses.

But, in the face of fierce criticism from motorists, councillors and planning chiefs have agreed to conduct an urgent review of traffic regulation orders throughout Bolton. Since the local authority took over responsibility for issuing parking fines from the police, it has faced accusations of "over zealous" enforcement.

But, with Christmas approaching, councillors stressed at yesterday's planning meeting that their aim is not to drive shoppers out of town.

They say they are acting in accordance with government recommendations and are increasing fines as every other neighbouring local authority has done. Manchester councillors are excepted to approve similar city centre fine increases next month.

But many Bolton councillors voiced their disapproval.

They say the risk of driving trade away should not be taken until the review of traffic orders is completed.

Bolton Council leader Cllr Bob Howarth said he was concerned about the effect the rise will have on the town centre. He called the decision a "compromise."

And deputy Tory leader Cllr John Walsh said: "I do not believe we should be running any risk of driving shoppers or anyone else away from the town centre until we can prove that our system here is infallible."

Cllr Laurence Williamson said the issue was not the fines, but that people continue to park where they should not.

Cllr Joseph Higson added: "We are bringing the penalties in line with other areas on the advice of the government.

"We are not trying to drive people people out of Bolton -- it is Bolton coming in line with other areas."

Government recommendations say fines should be brought into line with fixed penalties issued by the police for offences such as speeding.

Transport secretary Stephen Byers believes that if penalties are too low motorists will risk breaking the rules.

Motorists who pay a fine within 14 days currently pay £20. Under the new system they will pay £30.

As reported in the BEN, councillors first raised the issue in July but deferred the decision for further consideration.

Notices detailing the fine increases will now be distributed.