NEW parking charges planned for one of the borough's most popular libraries have been kept low after intense opposition from users.

The council announced proposals to introduce parking fees at Wanstead Library late last year, leading to criticism from elderly users and parents with small children who have no alternative but to drive to the site, in Spratt Hall Road.

The charges - which also affect many of the borough's parks, including Ray Park, in Woodford Green - have been set at 10p for the first hour and £3 for three hours and over.

The fees were kept low after feedbac received by council leader Keith Prince on the scheme during his 'meet-the-leader' talks across the borough.

A council spokeswoman said: "The new tariff means most leisure users will be virtually unaffected while people such as commuters, who want to park for longer, will pay a bit more for this service, up to a maximum of £3 for over three hours up to a whole day.

"Blue badge holders can continue to park for free and frequent users will be able to buy season tickets at a discount.

"There will also be concessions for Redbridge sports clubs at all the parks.

"It is hoped the charges will ensure more parking spaces are available for leisure users at the local park or library with the money raised being used to ensure Redbridge parks and libraries can be maintained to the high standard that residents expect.

"The charges will be implemented in the following parks and Wanstead library from mid February with other Libraries to follow - Valentines Park, Fairlop Waters, Seven Kings Park, Goodmayes Park, Clayhall Park, Ray Park and Barkingside Recreational Ground.

"More information on the charges will be issued nearer the time."