Engineers predict parking chaos

Drivers entering full car parks caused major problems

Traffic experts are warning of parking chaos in Stoke-on-Trent city centre when the sales start on Boxing Day.

Last year, drivers found themselves stuck in car parks for hours as they tried to get home.

One of the worst affected was Meigh Street car park, where one driver was stranded for more than four hours.

The problem was made worse by drivers looking for parking spaces where none were available.

Signs ignored

City engineers are warning the same could happen this year, if drivers do not change their behaviour.

They say new signs, which state where there are available parking spaces, are being ignored.

Instead many drivers are trying to use their habitual parking spots and are waiting until a space becomes free.

They are urging people to help avoid the problem by being prepared for a few minutes' walk.