FED-up people who live in a Kidderminster street are calling for ‘residents only’ parking to be introduced to stop rail commuters taking up spaces outside their homes.

Wyre Forest Labour conducted a survey of Lea Street residents who told them they couldn’t park outside their properties as rail users were long-stay parking on the street to avoid paying fees at Kidderminster station’s facility.

Ben Davies, Wyre Forest Labour secretary, said they would now lobby the local authorities about introducing ‘residents only’ parking while seeking an alternative for train passengers.

Meetings have also taken place with Kidderminster Harriers who said they are keen to help.

Resident Jon Reynolds, who has lived there for more than two years, said: “I have endured the daily battle of trying to park somewhere in the same street as I live in.

“My view is that residents parking permits are the only realistic solution to the problem.

“If parking in Lea Street has no restrictions, then its proximity to the rail station, and football ground means that rail users, and visitors to the football ground will continue to park there, because it’s convenient, and free.”

Mr Davies, said: “We have conducted a survey of residents whose overwhelming response is in favour of parking being restricted to the cars of those people living in Lea Street.

“The Labour Party is going to raise ‘Residents Only’ parking with Wyre Forest District and Worcestershire County Councils, whilst we recognise the need for alternative parking for Railway users.

“To help address the second part of this issue, we have held a very productive meeting with representatives of Kidderminster Harriers Football Club. The Harriers are very interested in allowing train commuters to access the Stadium Close car park.”

Harriers Chairman Colin Gordon said: “Kidderminster Harriers are absolutely committed to our community.

“The Club already assists the Severn Valley Railway and a children’s play facility with their car parking needs. We are very interested in extending this help to local residents and to railway users.”

Wyre Forest Labour Party Media Officer, Stephen Brown, added: “The Party is now looking forward to seeing this matter successfully concluded for all concerned and hopes the council can quickly get on board.”

Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Highways at Worcestershire County Council, Councillor Alan Amos, said: "We will consider requests for residential parking in line with our usual criteria.

“This would involve a detailed investigation and a formal consultation would need to be carried out to introduce a legally enforceable residents only parking restriction."