A dramatic price hike in parking permits for Talkin Tarn is neither necessary nor reasonable say Conservative city councillors.

But Chris Southward, Labour councillor and environment and transport portfolio holder, has defended the increase saying it is a really good idea.

Carlisle City Council wants to double the price of an annual parking permit for Talkin Tarn near Brampton from £52 to £104. All other parking prices for an hour or more will also increase by 5p and 10p.

Mike Mitchelson, city councillor for Brampton, said of the increase: "It's absolutely outrageous."

Fellow city councillor for Brampton, Steve Layden, also doesn't understand the rationale behind the dramatic increase in annual permits.

He said: "I just think it's counter productive. To me it doesn't make sense. It's almost cynical.

"I don't know whether they want to stop people using it or see it as a cash cow. It just seems over the top."

Mr Layden is concerned that people will be put off visiting Talkin Tarn because of the hike, discouraging them from taking exercise and experiencing the outdoors. The increase will also have a serious impact on members of the Talkin Tarn Amateur Rowing Club.

Mr Layden said: "People often make the point that at Hammonds Pond and the Sheepmount there's no charge at all.

"While I can accept the Tarn needed money spending on it but its had a very successful year. It's exceeded expectations. Is it just greed or are they being cynical?"

All income generated at Talkin Tarn is ring fenced for investment back into the tarn. The council estimates the tarn's car park will make £38,200 in the next financial year - up about £1,400 from estimates for this year.

Overall the council estimates it will make £1.15 million from car parks next year -it's highest earner after bereavement services at £1.3 million - but there is still a shortfall of £60,000 predicted in car parking income.

When questioned about the charges at a full council meeting on Tuesday by both Mr Layden and Mr Mitchelson, Mr Southward said: "It seems to me a [really] good idea.

"If it turns out to be disastrous, we'll change it but I just don't think it will be."