PLANS for eight parking meters in Wirral country parks will be discussed during a special 'call in' meeting next week after campaigners launched a final bid to stop the machines being installed.

Taking place at Wallasey Town Hall on Tuesday afternoon it follows a decision by the council's ruling cabinet to apply a Traffic Regulation Order at country parks in Eastham, Arrowe Park, Thurstaston and Royden.

The proposal was called in for closer scrutiny by Conservative councillors, who this week submitted a further petition of 1,185 signatures opposing the scheme, bringing the total number against the idea to 20,085.

The parking charges were among a raft of amended measures considered by the ruling Labour group in a bid to raise extra cash to top-up threadbare budgets following Government cuts.

A planned £4 flat-fee to park at Eastham, Thurstaston, Arrowe and Royden Country Parks was replaced with a new proposal to charge 50p for the first hour, £1 for two hours or £2 all day following public outcry.

A planned increase of all tariffs by 50p was replaced with a 20p rise.

The changes were approved during a budget cabinet meeting on March 6.

Conservative councillor for Greasby, Frankby and Irby Tom Anderson has urged residents opposed to the plan to attend Tuesday's call-in meeting, which starts at 4pm.

He told the Globe: "It was people power in January that forced Labour to rethink their original plan.

"Next week is the last opportunity for residents to kill off the charges altogether.

"The fact that we are scrutinising this decision in the same week as the Council launches its 'visitor economy strategy' shows how perverse this policy is.

"It's common knowledge that imposing charges on some of the most popular tourist destinations in Wirral will deter visitors.

"This will have a knock on effect for the small businesses based within the country parks – directly contradicting some of the town hall's so-called '2020 pledges'."

Among those objecting to the charges is Pat Gibson-Saxty, owner of Mimosa Tea Gardens in Eastham Country Park.

She said: "Our country parks were set up to provide enjoyment for everyone in Wirral, not just those who can afford to pay.

"For many people, our country parks offer a break from the stresses of daily life.

"Discouraging people from using our Parks will have a detrimental impact on their health as well."

Cllr Stuart Whittingham, cabinet member for highways, told the Globe: "Council has to fill the £45m Tory Government cuts to Wirral.

"Our proposals of 50p for two hours parking or £2 for a full day, recognise the importance of the country parks to Wirral and our visitors and will raise badly needed revenue to provide the services Wirral residents enjoy.

"Rather than calling council meetings, perhaps Tory members could join our call on the Prime Minister and her coalition of chaos to restore fair funding for Wirral residents."