A RESIDENTS’ parking scheme looks set for another extension, after complaints of inconsiderate motorists blocking roads for ambulances, fire engines, bin wagons and visitors.

Durham County Council has slowly expanded Durham’s controlled parking zone (CPZ) so it now covers not only the city centre but also parts of Western Hill, North End and Framwellgate Moor.

Now traffic chiefs have conducted a local ballot across another four streets, to see if residents want their areas added to the scheme.

Most residents of Holmlands Crescent and Dryburn Park voted in favour, while a majority of people living on St Cuthbert’s Avenue and Barrington Close voted against.

Hence, officials will press ahead with moves to add Holmlands Crescent and Dryburn Park.

A Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is expected to be published soon, followed by further consultation. If there are any objections, the final decision could be taken by a council highways committee.

No further action will be taken over Barrington Close and St Cuthbert’s Avenue.

People living within the CPZ have to buy a residents’ parking permit, which costs £30 a year.

A maximum of three are available to each household.

Visitors must display scratchcard-style permits bought by householders, priced £3 per book.

Framwellgate Moor and Newton Hall county councillor Mark Wilkes welcomed the latest proposals.

“We have had occasions on Holmlands Crescent where ambulances could not access the road due to inconsiderate parking by people who don’t even live in the area,” he said.

“If a fire engine needs to get to the top of the road, at times it would be impossible.

“Refuse wagons have struggled to pick up rubbish and recycling. Some residents haven’t even been able to get out of their own drives.

“The majority of residents on Holmlands Crescent tell me they are very happy with the plans.”

Coun Mamie Simmons said a fully democratic process had been followed and she was pleased residents’ wishes were being met.

Coun Amanda Hopgood said councillors were continuing to monitor parking issues across the area.