CONTROVERSIAL increases in parking charges in Haringey have been sent back for further discussion after a Lib Dem challenge.

The Labour administration on Haringey Council last month approved inflation busting parking charge rises, to bring the borough in line with other fares across London.

In particular, shopping parades in Muswell Hill, Crouch End, and Green Lanes, would be hit with increases of more than 100 per cent under the new rules, to the consternation of some traders.

The opposition Lib Dems challenged the decision this week, forcing a call-in meeting which resolved to sent the policy back to cabinet for further consideration.

The panel, which has a Labour majority, convened on Wednesday, and recommended an equality and economic assessment be carried out, in consultation with traders.

It also suggested rises in Muswell Hill, Crouch End, and Green Lanes be implemented in stages to reduce the impact of the change.

Councillor Lyn Weber, (LD,Couch End) who led the call-in delegation, welcomed the decision to refer the matter back to cabinet.

She said: “This is a vital issue for the traders, and for some it is a double blow because their CPZ charges will be going up as well.”

The cabinet are due to meet on Monday, December 13 to discuss the matter.