RESIDENTS in some Darlington streets will have to start paying to park outside their homes, despite objections to the council.

Darlington Borough Council has agreed a scheme which will see resident parking permit holders paying £25 a year to park outside their own homes.

Despite the objections, Councillor Nick Wallis said that most residents were sympathetic towards the change.

He said: "I think there is a great deal of understanding by residents as to why we are introducing charging in this way.

"Schemes must meet the needs of residents and meet the economies of the town. I think we have the balance right."

Four resident parking schemes already operate in the town and another two are due to come into force shortly.

All these designated areas will face residents charges.

The £107,000 cost of implementation and enforcement of permit parking will be met by new permit holders, who will pay £50 in the first year and £25 a year afterwards.

Resident parking places will be reviewed within six months of the charges being introduced to assess whether more or fewer spaces are required.