THERE is a “clear majority” of Scots in favour of councils being given powers to bring in a new levy on workplace parking, research by a Holyrood committee has found.

A survey by the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee of almost 4600 people and organisations found 58.5% backed the controversial measure, with 41.5% opposed.

The overwhelming majority of responses – 4491 of 4598 – came from private individuals, with 58.94% of this group in favour of local authorities being granted the power.

Meanwhile, of the 50 businesses that took part, 80% were opposed to the introduction of a workplace parking charge.

Overall, the survey “shows there is a clear majority in favour of local authorities being given this power”.

The committee carried out the research after the Scottish Government agreed to back the move as part of its budget deal with the Scottish Greens.