Row over airport parking 10 | 09 | 2010

LESS THAN three weeks before it's due to be introduced, Transport minister Stewart Stevenson is to meet Edinburgh airport executives to discuss its controversial plan to impose passenger drop-off charges.

The £1 levy, which is due to come into operation on October 1, has been described as "tedious, mindless and pointless" by MSPs. Branded a "money-spinner", there was also concern it could be the "thin of the wedge", with the fee increasing above the initial £1 level.

"This is a very significant issue and I fully appreciate the strength of feeling," Mr Stevenson said. "As the government minister, some of these comments will form part of the discussion I have with BAA when the next time I meet them." But Edinburgh airport management look unlikely to change their stance.

"We believe the solution to drop-off zones at Edinburgh airport is the best one to fixing this incredibly complex problem," a spokesman said.