It's a case of councils at war after members of one local authority branded another 'a disgrace' for snubbing a key meeting.

Members of Dereham Town Council (DTC) reacted angrily to a decision by Breckland Council not to send any representatives to discuss its controversial plans to introduce car parking charges.

Town councillors had hoped to question an officer from the district authority over the scheme at their full council meeting on Tuesday.

But Breckland officials turned down the invitation, saying they would engage with the town council at a later date.

The response went down very badly among town councillors.

Hugh King, from DTC, said: "I'd like it noted that it's a disgrace that a Breckland representative isn't here. 

Breckland will be introducing car parking charges across Swaffham, Thetford, Watton, Dereham and AttleboroughBreckland will be introducing car parking charges across Swaffham, Thetford, Watton, Dereham and Attleborough (Image: Matthew Usher)

"They preach that we're a partnership, but this doesn't look like much of a partnership to me." 

He said he wanted to discuss Breckland's cost strategy and consultation process for the charges but was unable to do so.

Ray O'Callaghan, another councillor, said: "It does seem like they're avoiding the topic."

Dereham's deputy mayor also expressed anger at a councillor not being present.Dereham's deputy mayor also expressed anger at a councillor not being present. (Image: Denise Bradley)
DTC had three items on its agenda relating to the parking charges, which are expected to be rolled out in the autumn of 2025.

One of the items related to Breckland's consultation process, which DTC is unhappy about.

The council voted to write to Breckland to outline its concerns.

The letter states the charges "could impact some people’s business and livelihoods in a catastrophic way" and that the consultation was "only taking place after the decision by Breckland Cabinet on July 15 to approve the introduction of charges".

It continues: "The council is concerned that this lack of interest, on the part of Breckland Council, to try to understand the issues and concerns of local businesses is lamentable and is likely lead to a lack of engagement when future consultation is carried out."

The latest row comes after Breckland councillors accused campaigners of spreading misinformation about the parking charges. 

Breckland Council has been approached for comment.