LIVERPOOL council’s transport boss last night pledged not to extend parking charges into the evening.

Cllr Malcolm Kennedy, cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said the Labour administration had “no intention” of extending charging in the Outer Controlled Zone from 6pm to 8pm.

The zone covers streets with major night-time economies, including restaurant and bar heavy Hope Street, Berry Street and Hardman Street.

Yesterday, it was revealed the council’s long running parking inquiry had suggested extending parking charges in the zone as part of a number of measures to tackle congestion.

The parking panel also recommended charging to help fund the introduction of residents’ only parking schemes.

Cllr Kennedy said he would have to approve the panel’s recommendations before they became policy, and he had no intention of extending parking charges into the evening.

He said: “They have suggested the city council could extend charges for parking up to 8pm in the evening in some outer parts of the city centre.

“The council will consider their request. But I have consistently opposed the extension of the time for parking operations and I will continue to do so.