WORK on a controversial leisure development will mean fewer parking spaces in the centre of Durham.

Demolition of buildings on the site of the planned £21m Walkergate development, which has drawn opposition from some residents and groups because of the number of pubs it will contain, will mean reduced capacity in the Walkergate car park.

But after the work is completed, in six weeks' time, an extra 100 spaces will be provided.

Developments such as the nearby Millennium City scheme and a new housing estate at Framwelgate Peth have reduced the amount of parking for visitors, shoppers and workers.

Durham County Council has also begun introducing restrictions, including permits for residents and charges for visitors, in side streets to stop all-day parking and encourage people not to use their cars so much