Dereham Town Council took legal ownership of Cherry Tree, Cowper Road and Becclesgate car parks from Breckland in July.

It is now looking at options to fund the costs of the car parks, either through those living in the town or those who use the facilities.

People who use the car parks could face charges, with another option being the town council's share of council tax going up to fund the costs.

That option would mean all households in the town would pay for the sites.

Locals expressed fears about the impact of both at the town's finance and governance meeting on Tuesday (September 15).

Dereham Town Council held their finance and governance meeting on Tuesday (September 15) (Image: Newsquest)

Ivor Livington, who lives in Dereham, said the proposals would cause "absolute chaos".

He added: "I can't quite believe we could be hit with parking charges and [the council] is going to argue for this.

"Working people would have to pay £100 a month to park in Dereham and every single person who uses the free car parks will avoid them and park all over........

© Eastern Daily Press