VISITORS to Southend are being “treated like walking cash points” as they are hit with added charges for paying for parking via online apps, it has been claimed.

A 10p convenience charge - which was previously covered by Southend Council - is being added to the parking bill for drivers.

It comes as new parking charges were brought in for evenings from 6pm to 9pm and parking costs were also increased by ten per cent.

Now, an opposition leader has slammed the Labour, Lib Dem and Independent-led administration for the move to add 10p for parking payments via apps.

Tony Cox, leader of Southend Conservatives, said: “It’s just not right and is a hidden charge. It’s becoming rip-off Southend.

“It is punishing residents and visitors and treating them like walking cash points. I am getting scores of people contacting me about it and the other increases in parking charges too.

“There are no signs or warnings about it and businesses have told me they’ve been hit by the changes in the Easter holidays.

“It all has a knock on effect and will mean people stay here less time and then go else where.”

Businessman Philip Miller has previously slammed the increase in parking charges as “another body blow” to firms in Southend.

Steven Wakefield, councillor responsible for highways, transport and parking, said: “There is a small fee attached to paying by the app for parking. It’s to recoup some money and it’s only for a parking session and not per parking hour.

“We are not trying to penalising anyone and all businesses have put their prices up. Southend car parks are a business and we need to keep up with the rises in inflation.

“The council needs to keep balancing its books and keep afloat. We have the wonderful Southend Pass which is for everyone and for one off payment people can park unlimited times one a month.”

It comes after plans to introduce parking charges in free areas inside the parks were halted after the Conservatives put forward a motion to abolish the unpopular proposals.

Critics say the move will hit residents, particularly the elderly, who use them for recreation and health activities.