Co-op, Barker Street - anger at overnight parking ban

Neighbours of the Co-op store in Barker Street are pleading with bosses to have a rethink and scrap the rules that allow people to park for a maximum of 45 minutes.

Signs on the car park, which is in the grounds of the Goodrest Tavern, went up at the end of January to the surprise of residents and Co-op staff. 

The signs read: "45 minutes free parking for customers of The Co-op. Maximum stay 45 minutes. No parking out of store opening hours."

The signs inform customers a £70 parking charge notice will be issued.

CO-OP: Parking restrictions Barker's Street Co-op (Image: Newsquest)

But frustrated residents said parking can be difficult in the narrow streets around their homes in Gilliam Street, Barker Street, Mayfield Avenue and Belmont Street, adding the new rules are exasperating the issues. 

Sarah Tudge, a Gillam Street resident, said in the 21 years she had lived there there had been no problems.

"They didn't ask the residents, there was no consultation," the resident said. 

RESTRICTIONS: Parking restrictions at the Co-op, Barker Street (Image: Newsquest)

"There are families who have lived there years. Children have got older and have their own cars and park in the street.

"The car park has always been a godsend. 

"I understand you need restriction during business hours but the car park is empty at night. 

"We are a residential area.

"I'm having to park as far as Green Lane to get a space.

"All my neighbours are upset about it.

"Co-op needs to work with residents, they could compromise."

Teresa Dawn said: "I live in Gillam Street and luckily finish work early enough to park outside my house.

"What I do find though people visiting don’t consider residents by parking thoughtfully.

SIGNS: The signs that have got up at the car park of the Co-op (Image: Newsquest)

"We’ve lived there for 28 years and have seen it getting worse for parking, especially when you get all the work vans taking up two car spaces."

Rainbow Hill city councillor Adrian Gregson said he was looking into the issues as residents he had spoken with were upset about it. 

COUNCILLOR: Adrian Gregson

"People have used it for overnight parking restrictions because parking is so awful," Cllr Gregson said. 

"Now they have taken it away as a privilege and charging if people get caught."

A Co-op spokesperson said: “Co-op is committed to serving and supporting the community.

"Sometimes, vehicles park for long periods of time, and it can become necessary to manage car parking spaces to ensure space remains available for our customers.

"We do believe our car parks should be operated fairly and also benefit the wider community, and the car park is free for 45 minutes.”