RELIEVED residents of two streets in a village near York are set to win their battle to preserve their parking places.

People living in Walnut Close and Holburn's Croft, Heslington, say they have had real problems with parked cars since the University of York introduced campus car park charges.

They say their home streets are clogged up with student cars, some of which are not moved for weeks on end.

But the residents' problems could soon be over, as on Thursday city council planning chiefs will consider extending York's permit parking scheme to cover the two streets.

Officers have recommended the scheme's approval.

Frank Holden, of Walnut Close, has been at the forefront of the residents' campaign for a permit scheme.

He said: "It will be a relief when this is sorted out. It has caused a lot of frustration.

"The main problem has been getting into and out of the street. Sometimes it is impossible to get a car through because of double parking.

"During term time the street is inundated. No utility vehicles or emergency vehicles could get down here. I had to cut a grass verge myself because the council worker was unable to get his utility vehicle past the parked vehicles."

Neighbour Paul Bainbridge, whose parents, Ian and Hazel, headed the campaign with Mr Holden, said: "The main problem is them 'garaging' their cars, leaving them for weeks at a time.

"The permit scheme will make a big difference."

Tom Connor, Students' Union President, said it was unfair to blame students for all the parking problems. He said the scheme's introduction could be seen as "anti-student".

Mr Connor said: "It seems the students are being blamed for where they are forced to live. Heslington is a busy little village, with the banks, shops and pubs.

"It is holiday time now and all the students are at home, but the village is still busy and people are still parking their cars.

"This does not make students feel welcome in the community that they contribute so much to."

The scheme will discussed by City of York Council's planning and transport (east area) sub-committee at The Guildhall, from 3pm tomorrow.

Updated: 10:20 Wednesday, July 09, 2003