COUNCILLORS have raised concerns after car parking fees at a train station increased by more than 300% overnight. 

Fees for day parking at Malvern Link train station have been increased from £1.10 to £3.50 in a move West Midlands Railway described as "to ensure the long-term sustainability of the railway". 

However, councillors have raised concerns over the move contributing to more traffic and commuters parking on nearby roads, which they say are already an issue. 

Jude Green, Malvern Town Council councillor, said: "This is worrying news for residents. 

"Residents have already complained about commuters parking on the nearby roads and with the fees going up I can only assume that this problem is going to get even worse. 

"Commuters already park on Somers Road, Cromwell and Osborne because it's free and raising the price is not going to fix this issue. 

"I've even heard reports of people taking the train to the airport and leaving their car of the roads for weeks just because they can." 

The changes came into effect on September 2 and WMR said that whilst the fees have gone up, passengers could save money by purchasing season tickets.

A West Midlands Railway spokesperson said: “As a responsible operator we must strike a balance between keeping the cost of rail travel low and generating sufficient revenue to ensure the long-term sustainability of the railway.

“The recent car parking changes at Malvern Link bring the pricing structure at the site into line with other comparable stations from its previous low level.

“Passengers can also save money on parking by purchasing weekly, monthly or annual season tickets.”

Many users have expressed their concerns at the massive increase, which is by more than 300% and its sudden and unexpected imposition on residents and commuters. 

David Mead, deputy mayor at Malvern Town Council, said: "I didn't know that this was happening but it's unfortunate. 

"I don't use that station but unfortunately it will discourage people from using the car park and will likely lead to increased use of the streets. 

"People might even use a different station leading to more traffic in other areas. 

"It certainly doesn't encourage people to use trains which should be encouraged."