Concerns over town's parking due to restrictions

Tensions have flared up over new parking plans for Barnard Castle

Residents in a market town fear new parking restrictions could exacerbate an already "dire" situation.

Durham County Council plans to make changes at four sites in Barnard Castle, with the aim of "improving road safety".

Those objecting to the proposals at The Sills, Vere Road, Newgate and Flatts Road said the number of spaces available for residents and workers would be reduced.

Councillors are set to make a decision on Monday.

The local authority said it reviewed existing regulations and proposed several new restrictions in response to concerns, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Vere Road's junction with Commercial Yard has received the most objections

Durham Constabulary also said vehicles using Flatts Road were parking over a fire hydrant and obstructing emergency access, which was likely to increase response times.

Council officers said it was necessary to implement a "no waiting at any time" restriction at its junction with Galgate to combat "obstructive and inconsiderate" parking.

One of those who objected to similar changes at Newgate said it "would further reduce the current already dire parking situation" for residents.

"It is almost impossible to park during office hours, Monday to Friday, due to the number of people who work in town," they said.

Another said it would have a "profound and negative impact" on the number of parking spaces available, "chiefly for residents, but also local shop workers".

A council spokesperson said they "appreciated parking is at a premium within the town centre" but the council was looking "to ensure the safety of vehicle movement throughout the town".