Arndale workers fear they will lose their free parking after the centre announced changes to parking fees.

Staff say they have been left ‘confused’ after notices were handed out stating that charges are to be introduced on levels four and five where they are currently able to park for free.

The notice says the floors will be for permit holders only and that month-long season tickets can be bought for £40.

But when contacted by the Observer, Arndale bosses said they would ‘continue to offer complimentary parking to retailers’.

But Leanne Gaynor, 30, who works at Iceland says she is worried that it will mean only one free place will be available for store managers and has called on centre bosses to clarify the issue before the changes come into affect on March 21. Arndale bosses could not be contacted as the Observer went to press.

The notice handed out by security staff at Accrington Arndale Centre warning of parking charges.

Leanne said: “If we do have to pay it’s ridiculous as there’s nowhere else to park in town. Staff drive here from Burnley and Darwen and a lot get minimum wage. Everyone’s going mental.”

Julie Allonby, who works at Oddies bakery, said: “We’ve had customers complaining about it.

“The charge won’t be good for business, especially with Marks and Spencers closing.”

Levels one to three of the car park will remain free of charge but with a maximum three hour stay.

But Colin Lowther, president of the Hyndburn Museum and Heritage Centre based in the Arndale, said: “It’ll do nothing to encourage shoppers and will penalise workers. The Arndale owners run lots of empty units but free parking encourages trade and charging contravenes what Accrington’s about.”

Colin Lowther, president of the Hyndburn Museum and Heritage Centre, said Arndale Car Parking charges would penalise staff and discourage shoppers

Council leader Miles Parkinson said: “A 25 year lease from 1988 prevented centre parking charges. The lease has lapsed but states after 25 years the council will only release the centre’s obligations for all or part of the car park if it proves to us it’s not required for the Arndale or the town centre.”

An Arndale centre spokesman said: “Commuters abuse the car park. The intention is to maintain three hours free parking, prioritise available spaces for shoppers and continue providing retailers with complimentary parking.

“There will be a dedicated area for commuters to park in excess of three hours.

“The purpose is to maintain ease of parking for shoppers.”