Residents and councillors branded the proposals "sneaky" and "outrageous", claiming it was making people in one of the most deprived areas of Peterborough stump up cash they just didn't have.

They also said a notice with tiny print was stuck to a telegraph pole in roads but the city council failed to inform them by letter.

The introduction of a paid-for visitors' pass is part of city-wide plans to overhaul residential parking charges.

A protest meeting has been organised so people can voice their objections.

One 61-year-old pensioner from Clarence Road, Millfield, said: "The worst is the visitor's permit. It used to be free.

"I know so many people that are unhappy about this.

"I live in Millfield and there are a lot of pensioners that need visits from their family and friends.

"It's diabolical.

"I have a car and live alone. I have a neighbour of 94. She lives alone and gets visit from her son.

"She also has a carer. She's quite upset. At her age, she doesn't want this worry."

She added: "They put a notice on a pole in small print. We didn't get a letter.

"This will affect the whole of the city, it's not just one or two areas.

"I couldn't believe they are doing it in these times when people are having to be careful with money.

"And it's near Christmas. It's like they are trying to sneak it through."

Cllr Nazim Khan, who represents the Central ward, which falls within the most deprived 10 per cent in England, said: "It's outrageous. How can they justify going from free to £19?

"You had to have a magnifying glass to read the notice, and no letters were sent out.

"The worst hit area will be the centre of Peterborough, one of the most deprived areas.

"People are having charge upon charge imposed on them.