Council bosses in Aberdeen have not ruled out the possibility of introducing congestion charges to tackle traffic problems in the city.
A commission set up by the Scottish Government to look at reviving town centres has suggested that local authorities consider introducing fees to help make city centre shopping streets more pedestrian friendly.
The move is likely to prove highly controversial, however, and was dismissed as “absurd” by one north-east MSP.
However, council leader Jenny Laing said she would be open to discussions with the Scottish Government.
Ministers commissioned a team of experts led by architect Malcolm Fraser to look at ways of breathing new life into city and town centres across the country.
A draft report from the group includes a “masterplanning toolkit”, which details measures such as congestion charging, increased 20mph zones and the pedestrianisation of city streets.
Mrs Laing said: “We’re looking at various things for the city and believe this may be a reasonable time if the Scottish Government wanted to get into discussion.
“I am not aware that we have received any approach by the Scottish government. We would be happy to sit down and talk to them, and talk to them about issues related to Aberdeen.
She said the council would not look at congestion charging “in isolation”, but would consider “wider issues” which could affect motorist in the city.
However, Scottish Conservative transport spokesman Alex Johnstone said previous attempts to introduce congestion charges in Scotland proved “a complete disaster”.
“For the SNP to even suggest to councils they look into the possibility is the first step on the ladder of rank hypocrisy,” he added.
“If they really believe congestion charges are a good idea, they should be out there right now campaigning and making their case.
“It is an absurd idea and should be kicked into the longest grass possible.”
Congestion charges have been in place in London for several years, with motorists charged £11.50 each day to drive within a central zone.
A government spokeswoman said: “The Scottish Government will not be prescriptive on what measures should be taken to meet local needs but will help to create the right conditions to facilitate action for town centre regeneration.”