Councillors are pressing ahead with a town centre parking scheme for Hove even though surveys have shown most people are against it.

But Brighton and Hove Council has agreed to reduce the charges for the first year.

Last night environment councillor John Ballance told Brighton and Hove's policy and resources committee that opinion was fairly equally divided among residents over the scheme.

He said many businesses were against it, however, and efforts were being made to tailor the scheme to benefit traders.

But Tory councillor Stephen Wade said: "There is very clear opposition to it. If you are going to consult people, you should accept the verdict."

He said a group of councillors, mainly from Brighton, was imposing unwanted parking proposals on Hove.

His colleague Peter Lewis accused the Labour-run council of arrogance in putting forward the proposal.

And Tory deputy leader Brian Oxley said: "It is outrageous that this scheme is being approved that will alter the way in which people park their cars and live in central Hove.

"Business confidence is fragile in this area. Some may close and others may be forced to go elsewhere. This will breed resentment."

Senior Labour councillor Ian Duncan said: "This is not an election or a referendum as some people seem to think."

The initial charge will be £52 for residents and £104 for businesses. After a year fees will rise to £80 and £160. But there will still have to be a period of statutory consultation before the scheme can go ahead.