COUNCILLORS have backed plans for new parking restriction to tackle "obstructive parking" on busy road. Durham County Council’s highways committee meeting agreed to the introduction of permit parking in Gilesgate and the nearby St Giles Close in Durham.

The bid forms part of a wider effort to tackle obstructive parking and improve parking availability in the north-east of Durham.

In action, the scheme will include two hour-long restrictions in the morning and afternoon to prevent people parking for long periods.

The proposals were supported by local county councillors and Durham Constabulary and followed a public consultation.

While concerns were raised by some objectors about vehicles being displaced to nearby streets, councillors supported the plans.

A highways officer report, presented to councillors, reads: “The area is at present unrestricted meaning vehicles can be parked at this location without time limit.

“Some vehicles are believed to be staff commuting to work or students who leave their vehicles in this location for the full duration of the day.”

It adds: “Alternative parking is available within the city (park and ride, pay and display and private car parking areas) for commuters and non-permit holders.”

Under the new rules, residents can apply for permits if they don’t have off-street parking available.

Visitor parking permits will also be available for purchase.

Following requests by councillors, the committee agreed to reduce the number of resident parking permits per household from three to two.

Coun David Freeman, who represents the Elvet and Gilesgate division, said 26 public responses in favour of the plans showed the “groundswell of support for the scheme.”

“The proposal is much needed, will be welcomed by residents and will go a long way towards resolving the problem,” he said.

Coun Richard Ormerod added: “I have a great deal of sympathy for the residents here, this area of the city is the nearest place on the east of the city where you can park without restrictions.

“There is no perfect solution but it’s the best option.”

Councillors also agreed to change parking restrictions at Fowlers Yard to ‘No Waiting and no Loading/Unloading at Any Time’.

This aims to tackle obstructive parking due to previous issues with council bin wagons accessing the lane.