Car park charges run into opposition

Keele University's attempt to drive through plans for campus car parking charges has run into protest from staff and students.

Keele's vice-chancellor's committee last month suggested staff pay up to Pounds 150 a year, and students up to Pounds 50 a year - but without the guarantee of a space.

The proposals support the university's plan to create traffic-free zones and restrict or discourage cars, while raising over Pounds 400,000 to improve cycle and footpaths, bus services and car parks on the outskirts of the campus.

Lecturers' union leaders strongly oppose any higher charges, pointing out that Keele has a large rural campus that is difficult to reach without a car.