RESIDENTS of an Andover Road are celebrating after Test Valley Borough Council agreed to maintain councilowned parking land opposite their properties.

Eastfield Road residents have been raising concerns with the council after parking permit charges were imposed three years ago on those wanting to park on a strip of waste land next to the Walled Meadow estate.

Permits cost £15 per year and some of them are paying up to £30 a year for a resident and visitors’ permit.

Until that point, they had maintained the land themselves which was overgrown with grass and bushes in the summer.

They were under the impression that the imposition of the charges meant the council would take responsibility for the land but this has not happened and has left them questioning what they are getting for their money as they are also struggling to park.

Resident of 46 years David Few, said: “ We brought the house because we really liked the road but it is becoming a dumping ground.”

“If you don’t park next to the bushes you have to park over the kerb and then you are frightened of getting your car damaged because it is a narrow road. It has been making everyday life stressful.”

Residents have contacted the council about maintenance and were told that the permit fee is just an administration charge and they will not be maintaining the land.

Another resident, Carl Bentley, said: “I have written to the council asking for reasons because I am getting nothing for my money.”

However, when contacted by the Advertiser Test Valley Borough Council said it has now agreed to maintain the parking area.

A spokesman said: “We have taken residents’ comments on board and are pleased to advise that we will go out to the site as soon as possible to cut back the overgrown grass and weeds. We will ensure the area is included on our maintenance schedules so that residents can continue to use the car parking spaces.”