Residents fear 'chaos' over new parking plans

The proposals would ban parking on the south side of Clarel Street in Penistone

Proposals to introduce double yellow lines to ease congestion on a bus route in South Yorkshire would "create chaos", residents warn.

The proposals would ban parking on the south side of Clarel Street in Penistone, Barnsley, after repeated reports of large vehicles being blocked by parked cars.

A Barnsley Council report states the move was necessary to ensure bus services are not withdrawn, refuse collections can continue and emergency vehicles can get through. It also highlights the safety benefits of preventing pavement parking.

However, some nearby residents objected during consultation, saying the plans would make life harder for people of all ages.

One parent said they needed to park outside their home because they had two small children and a puppy, adding that "elderly residents rely on external support and require on-street parking outside their houses".

Others warned the changes would push all parking onto the opposite side of the road, causing drivers to meet in the middle of the street.

One described it as a recipe for "confrontations", while another claimed the move would "create chaos" and prevent visitors from stopping.

In response, council officers said the "role of the highway is not to provide parking".

They said roads should be safe and passable for pedestrians, including wheelchair users and parents with prams.

Council officers pointed out the homes on the south side of the street have driveways, so residents would still have off-road parking available.

The £7,500 scheme, which is being funded by Stagecoach, is set to go before the council's cabinet on Wednesday.

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