Student cars 'clogging up roads'

Residents in Loughborough say students are causing parking problems by taking spaces near their homes.

People living on Outwoods Drive, near the town's university, say their streets are clogged as students try to dodge on-campus parking fees.

They have complained to Loughborough University and want signs or on-street parking permits enforced.

University officials says they are working closely with police to tackle the problem.

Certainly a fire engine couldn't get through Sybil Coady, resident

Residents say the roads are packed with cars - sometimes making it difficult for them to get out of their homes.

Outwoods Drive resident Sybil Coady said: "We've seen larger vehicles like coaches having to back up onto Forest Road because they simply can't get through.

"Certainly a fire engine couldn't get through."

University managers say staff do not have any power to force students to move their cars when they are on roads outside the campus.

A university spokesperson said: "The university does not encourage students to bring vehicles to the town, but clearly we cannot stop them.

"Some parking places are provided on campus for students but these are limited."

Charnwood Borough Council said resident parking permits only apply where there is a special scheme in place.

"Such schemes have complicated legal requirements and take a long time to introduce, so the council has not yet been able to respond to all requests," the council said.