The Green party has accused opposition councillors of “making it up as they go along” in a row over free Christmas parking.

Brighton and Hove City Council agreed to move forward on plans to have free parking in the city centre over the Christmas season after a trial last year.

The Greens, who do not support the idea, were outvoted by Tory and Labour councillors.

Members also agreed to look at the suspension of all non-emergency roadworks for Christmas at a meeting on Thursday.

Green councillors said last year’s free parking cost the council £64,000.

Green Councillor Ian Davey said the opposition were “making it up as they go along”.

He said: “The free parking last year showed little if any increase in the number of people parking in the car parks that were free whilst drivers continued to queue for those that were not.

“People come to visit our city because of our award-winning restaurants, unique shops and special attractions – not because of the price of parking.”

A report on free parking set for December 6, 7, 14 and 21 will go to Environment, Transport and Sustainability Committee.

The proposed sites are Norton Road, London Road, Regency Square, High Street and Trafalgar Street car parks.

An amendment proposed by the Labour group calling for free bus travel on December 6 was voted down.

Labour Councillor Gill Mitchell said: “The overall impact last year was projected to be well over £100,000 and it was just £64,000 and the gridlock predicted by the Greens did not materialise so we were happy to support free parking.

“We thought it would be interesting to explore whether we could subsidise bus travel on Small Business Saturday.”

The Conservative group hailed last year’s trial as a success.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald said: “Supporting local businesses is vital. Good Christmas trading is so important.

“I know residents are keen to use local shops when possible, but are conscious that city centre parking charges are high, so I know that this scheme will boost trade.”

Andy Cheesman of City Cabs said the proposal would allow the city to compete with neighbouring towns.