Drivers who leave their car for more than 12 hours at Stratford Park could face fines if councillors approve a package of changes to parking across the Stroud district next month.

Plans being put before district councillors in October aim to stop drivers clogging up the car park at the expense of those using the leisure centre.

Stroud District Council currently has limited enforcement powers at Stratford Park, meaning the only barrier to cars coming and going freely are the gates, which are locked overnight.

Powers are so limited that the council can not fine those who park in disabled bays without a blue badge.

But the plans, which would also limit buses and coaches to staying no more than two hours, would boost the council’s ability to issue tickets.

The crackdown is part of the remnants of the council’s car parking review, which included plans to end free parking at Stratford Park as well as at lots in Nailsworth, Dursley, and Wotton-under-Edge.

Charges have now been dropped off the back of public outcry - residents and traders across the Stroud district handed in four petitions to the council totalling 2,856 signatures - but councillors could still press ahead with other plans.

Nailsworth residents were particularly vocal in their opposition to parking charges. Photo: Simon Pizzey

This includes introducing free parking in Painswick and Stonehouse after 3pm at the cost of £2,000 to £3,000 to the council.

Long stay parking near Stroud and Stonehouse stations could also be extended to 72 hours to facilitate more weekend trips by rail.

But the campaign against charges appears to have hampered the council’s other ambitions - documents released ahead of the Thursday meeting say plans for contactless payment and electric vehicle charging points are now unfunded.

Read the council’s parking plans in full here: bit.ly/2R4J4Z8