Blackpool parking permits scheme prompts anger among residents

They say the introduction by Blackpool Council of restrictions in other parts of South Shore has put pressure on parking spots in their neighbourhood.

Now people living in Dean Street, Hill Street, Moore Street, Byron Street and Rawcliffe Street want the council to consider introducing residents only parking there too.

This year saw additional permit zones adopted in Osborne Road, Withnell Road, Windsor Avenue and Brighton Avenue on top of existing residents only parking on streets from Bagot Street to Crystal Road.

Campaigner Sean Hornby, of Dean Street, said: "We are sandwiched in between two residential permit areas which means everyone is trying to park here because it's the only unrestricted area left.

"But it means residents can't park outside their own homes.

"This is predominantly a residential area with lots of elderly people and families with children and it is causing a real problem."

Now nearly 80 people have signed a petition asking for the council to look into introducing a residential permit scheme. They also want a vehicle weight restriction of 7.5 tonnes introduced to prevent coaches and lorries using routes through the area.

Newly elected Blackpool South MP Scott Benton is backing the residents.

He said: "I'm aware of long standing parking issues in that part of South Shore.

"Some streets over the last few years have been granted parking restrictions while others haven't.

"So it's important we have a consistent approach across these areas to make sure parking arrangements work for residents, hoteliers and other local businesses.

"This will be something I will be working with residents to bring about, and I fully support the petition to the council."

A spokesperson for Blackpool Council said: “We do not appear to have any formal request for a residents only parking scheme in this area.

"When we do receive such requests our highways team do look to assess and review the situation and explore if there are any suitable and practical solutions.”