A petition is urging council bosses to throw out plans to charge for parking on Gorleston seafront.

The appeal comes as Conservative-controlled Great Yarmouth Borough Council is introducing fees at Brush Quay car park as part of efforts to boost its finances in order to plug a £2.2m deficit.

So far, more than 200 people have signed the appeal - which claims the carpark is "more than just a place to leave our vehicles" and is "an integral part" of community life.

One person who put their name to the plea said: "Locals rely on this carpark as there is nowhere else to park."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Residents of the area say they rely on Brush Quay carpark for parking their own cars. Residents of the area say they rely on Brush Quay carpark for parking their own cars. (Image: Google Maps)

READ MORE: Row breaks out over coastal car park charges which will ‘hurt locals most’

Melissa Kingston, who set up the petition, wrote online that the proposed charges "will not only burden us financially but also affect local businesses that rely on customers who use these parking facilities".

She also expressed concern the fees might discourage tourists from visiting Gorleston.

Ms Kingston said: "We understand the council’s need for revenue generation but believe there must be other ways without causing such disruption and potential harm.

"We urge them instead to consider alternative methods of raising funds or cutting costs that won't negatively impact residents or businesses."

Following the decision, people will have to pay £4.50 for a half day stay and £9 for a full day while season tickets will also be offered. It will remain free in the winter months and between 6pm - 9am. 

The move has also been criticised by the Labour opposition group at GYBC as they say the site is predominately used by people living close by, due to insufficient on-street parking in the surrounding roads.

They argue that fees should be introduced at the nearby clifftop car park instead.