THE six-year saga to solve the parking problem in a congested area of Worcester may finally be coming to an end.

Letters have now been distributed to the 650 households in the Arboretum explaining the proposals for a parking scheme and asking residents to reply, indicating their support or opposition.

Under the proposed measures, about 308 permits, costing £30 each year, will be issued and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Each household could apply for up to three permits, with the second costing £40 and the third, £60. Households can also apply for visitor permits.

At least 51 per cent of households must respond to the proposal, with at least 33 per cent in favour, otherwise the scheme will not go ahead.

City councillor Rob Peachey, who represents the area, said: "I don't want to influence how residents should vote but I would encourage as many as possible to respond." The Arboretum Residents' Association distributed the letters last weekend.

The deadline for households to return the completed forms to the city council is Friday, October 28.

About 120 homes in the area already have off-street parking.

The permit scheme was first discussed with the city council as far back as 1999 and a proposal put to the residents' association in February 2000. However, plans were put on hold later that summer because of lack of support from the police.

Since then, there have been public consultations, discussions between the association and the council but the scheme has been delayed for various reasons.

l If you live in St John's or the Arboretum and you have a story, call reporter Sundeep Kumar on 01905 742255 or e-mail: sk@thisisworcester.co.uk