A CRACKDOWN on commuters and shoppers began this week with the introduction of the first residents-only parking scheme in Bury.

And depending on its success, highway chiefs could soon introduce it across the borough.

Inconsiderate drivers who have parked-up in residential streets rather than paying car park charges were in for a rude awakening on Monday.

That's when the pilot scheme came into operation on Irwell Street, Phoenix Street, Belle Vue Terrace and Manchester Old Road.

Under the scheme, non-residents who park on these roads during the day will be fined. Residents will pay £15 a year for their permits, disabled residents £3 and visitors' permits will be free. The restrictions are in force on Irwell Street/Phoenix Street between 8am and 6pm and between 9.30am and 4.40pm on Manchester Old Road/Belle Vue Terrace.

Bury Council's traffic and engineering spokesman, Councillor Steve Perkins said: "A great deal of discussion and consultation has taken place with local people about the setting up of the first schemes. Residents have had to put up with problems caused by shoppers and commuters parking outside their homes for too long."

Early indications show that the scheme is already having the desired effect, with roads being clear of parked cars, much to the delight of residents.

But the council has shown some mercy and for the first three days officers handed out cautionary notices only.

"From now on though we will not hesitate to issue excess charge notices," warned a council spokesman.

The residents have been able to apply for permits allowing themselves and visitors to park outside their homes.

Coun Perkins said: "We have already had requests from other parts of the borough asking about the possibility of similar initiatives being established in residential areas. But before consideration is given to those we want to assess how the initial projects work."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.