A Penryn car park which currently offers one hour free parking may become pay and display, it has been revealed, following complaints from a local business owner.

Andrew Marston, owner of the Jubilee Wharf development, wrote to Penryn Town Council to complain of the “draconian” and “over-zealous” enforcement at Exchequer Quay by operator Armtrac.

The car park, which is owned by Truro Port Authority, currently offers one hour’s free parking, after which car owners will be handed a £60 parking charge.

Mr Marston wrote: “I do not expect Exchequer Quay to be a free car park, but simply wish it noted that the draconian and often over-zealous enforcement currently in force is severely damaging Penryn’s reputation and visitor experience.

He added: “For a lot of people their experience on Exchequer Quay defines their visit to Penryn. It is their point of interaction with the town, and leaves the lasting impression that we are aggressively deterring visitors.”

Cornwall Councillor Mary May, who sits on the Harbour board, said there were currently some issues, with pay and display suggested as an option, and the option was due to be discussed at its next meeting.

She added: “It is supposed to be short stay and it’s free.

“We have said no to pay and display on two occasions.

“There are two sides to the story.”

Armtrac refused to comment on the situation, while the Port Authority said there would be no comment until after the issue had been discussed.