PLANS for parking permits in a busy street look set for approval despite a taxi firm’ objections.

Durham County Council wants the control for South Burns, alongside Chester-le-Street’s market place.

Access is restricted to buses, market traders, and deliveries and parking for businesses.

Each business in South Burns would get one permit to park on the road’s yellow lines.

But private hire firm ABA Taxis, fears it might have to move from its base of 25 years, because the new system will hit its trade because it will be difficult to pick up and drop off customers at the office..

The company, which has seven drivers, used to be allowed to park three cars in the days when the police enforced the regulations.

It fears that it is business will be hit severely if only one of its vehicles can be parked at the office.

It says there are no alternative places nearby where drivers could park while waiting for their next booking.

It has lodged an objection that will be considered when the Highways Committee discusses a recommendation to approve the scheme.

A nearby restaurant and take-away has also objected to the plan.

Terry Collins, Corporate Director Neighbourhood Services, says in a report to the committee: "There are a number of alternative parking areas available for customers of both establishments within a very short walking distance of the premises.

"These are available on North Burns, South Burns, Cone Terrace and also Tesco’s car park (for Tesco’s customers), which has a taxi pick up /drop off area.

" It should be noted that these patrons should not be within the restricted area at present anyway.

"Under the proposed scheme each company would be entitled to one permit which will allow a vehicle from the company to park within the restricted zone. .

ABA’s office manager Marie Alderson said: "It will be a nightmare for us.

"They are saying there is a car park at Tesco, but really it is for shoppers and there is a rank there but that is for their own taxi firm. They are not going to allow us to park on it.

"It is looking as if we will be frozen out."