PARK and ride has a new meaning for fed-up residents living in one cul-de-sac in the region.

For some drivers leave their cars in the street in Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire, for up to a week at a time.

Ashbourne Close, which has 22 homes, has become a free parking spot for businessmen who switch to a colleague's car before driving off to locations across the country.

Some are believed to travel to London for stop-over meetings or conferences, leaving access problems for the residents.

But people living in the close have decided enough is enough and have now signed a petition to North Yorkshire County Council demanding action.

They are seeking a residents' only parking plan for their road, close to the A1 motorway. In their petition, they say cars are parked for a week at a time while businessmen travel off with colleagues.

They say their road has been targeted because it is so close to the motorway.

The issue will be discussed by councillors at the Harrogate area committee of the county council on Thursday.

Council officials say two alternatives are available - access only or round-the-clock waiting restrictions.

But highway officials say they do not believe the issue will be resolved by restricting parking, because any parking would be simply moved to another area.

However, they do suggest a road marking be painted opposite the access to No1 Ashbourne Close so the area could be kept clear of parked cars.