Disgruntled residents living in town centre rat run streets have rejected plans for a protected parking scheme that would cost £60 per year.

Homeowners in Devonshire Road, Gladstone Road and Cavendish Street have called for action as they tire of drivers using the area as a thoroughfare - leaving them without space to park.

Ipswich Star: Residents in Devonshire Road and Gladstone Road have previously wanted a block to vehicles in Cavendish StreetResidents in Devonshire Road and Gladstone Road have previously wanted a block to vehicles in Cavendish Street (Image: Charlotte Bond)

A public consultation carried out by Cllr Philippa Gordon-Gould, the Borough Council representative for Holywells, found residents were firmly against a scheme that would see them pay £60 annually for a parking permit. 

"We fleshed out some really important issues and enabled residents to get their views across to the council," said Cllr Gordon-Gould. 

"The main issue was the cost just to be guaranteed a space."

Residents have previously called for Cavendish Street to be shut at White Elm Street so drivers coming from the Foxhall Road direction can’t cut through to the waterfront.

Cars are also being parked on both sides of the narrow road, making it difficult for traffic to get through and preventing people from parking near their homes.

Ipswich Star: Cllr Philippa Gordon-Gould carried out a consultation of neighbours. Credit: Cllr Philippa Gordon-GouldCllr Philippa Gordon-Gould carried out a consultation of neighbours. Credit: Cllr Philippa Gordon-Gould (Image: Cllr Philippa Gordon-Gould)

"There were a lot of alternative suggestions for us to consider," added Cllr Gordon-Gould.

"This included removing the pavement to allow parking on both sides, overnight parking permits and a guaranteed free space for at least one vehicle per family.

"These options are not currently available from the council but may suggest a worthwhile change to policy conditions in the future."

Ipswich MP Tom Hunt said he was "surprised" at the outcome of the consultation, but added: "it is the residents' road so they should decide what happens".

Ipswich Star: Ipswich MP Tom Hunt Credit: Office of Tom HuntIpswich MP Tom Hunt Credit: Office of Tom Hunt (Image: House of Commons)

"It's clear this is a major problem and I can't think of another example where it is as difficult for residents to park on their road. 

"I am pleased this consultation has been carried out. We now need to look at some of the suggestions and talk about which of those are feasible."