DURHAM residents are to be given a say on the third and final phase of parking restrictions.

Durham County Council highways chiefs have drawn up plans to control parking in an area that includes Western Hill, Framwellgate Peth, Milburngate, South Street, Crossgate Peth, and Redhills Lane.

The proposals include short and long stay pay-and-display on-street parking areas, waiting restrictions, and permits for residents.

The first phase of the scheme, in the Elvet and Whinney Hill area, was introduced earlier this year.

The second phase, in the Claypath, Sands, Framwellgate and Walkergate areas, is due to come into force by the end of January. Car parking firm NCP was chosen by the council to police the controls.

People who will be affected by the third phase of proposals can see what is planned, and discuss the scheme with council officers at an exhibition in the city's library next month.

The council is also likely to consult residents and traders before finally approving the measures some time next year.

The restrictions are the council's answer to the increasing problems of traffic congestion, and competition for limited parking space.

It hopes the proposals will discourage people from parking in side streets all day.

The measures are part of a package, including plans for park-and-ride bus services, and a toll for using Saddler Street.

So far, consultation has revealed most people welcome the initiative. During consultation for the second phase, support from residents was as much as 100 per cent in some streets.

Council cabinet member Don Ross said: "People accept that the present free-for-all is not sustainable, and that there is a need to reduce the impact of cars in our historic city.

"The completion of the parking control scheme will continue our commitment to protecting the city's World Heritage status, and maintaining its attractiveness and economic viability.''

The exhibition will be held in the library, in South Street, on Thursday, January 11, between 9.30am and 7pm, on Friday, January 12, between 9.30am and 4pm, and on Saturday, January 13, from 9.30am to 4pm.