A LAST-ditch attempt to stop parking meters coming in on streets in Bowness, Kendal and Ambleside has failed.

Opposition Tories on Cumbria County Council won a hearing on Monday to review the decision to bring in the meters.

They argued that the scheme should be dropped following a 3,000-signature public petition and a ‘lack of public consultation’.

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However, the county’s scrutiny management board, meeting in Carlisle, agreed to uphold the original committee’s decision.

Back in July, the Lib Dem-controlled South Lakeland local committee agreed nine to four that the meters be introduced.

It means on-street parking charges will now come in at The Glebe in Bowness, and Lake Road (north) and Wansfell Road in Ambleside.

They will also be introduced on five streets in Kendal.

Coun James Airey, leader of the Tory opposition on the council, described it as ‘stubborn pride.’ Coun Airey still wants to know how many meters are coming in, how much they will cost and what they will make in revenue.

“We still haven’t been provided with a proper business case by officers and it’s back of the fag packet stuff,” said Coun Airey.

“Why bother going ahead if they have taken out half of the meters? They’re sticking with this decision through stubborn pride.”