PARKING permits and a one-way system are being discussed as ways to help residents living in a town centre rat run.

Whalley Road and Percy Street have come under Northwich Town Council's spotlight as rules change for the Memorial Court car park.

As the memorial hall car park, this was a 24-hour free car park but when Memorial Court opens a four hour limit will be imposed.

Cllr Brian Jamieson said: "That, historically, was a car park for workers in the town.

"That's not going to happen when it goes to four hours and they're going to find somewhere else.

"The likelihood is that there's going to be significant on-road parking in Percy Street, Priory Street, School Way and Whalley Road – they'll realise they can't part on the car park and will park in the side streets.

"We've asked Cheshire West to consider residents' permits.

"There's some suggestion of an annual payment of £60 but we thought that would be a bit of excessive, we didn't think that was appropriate."

The council is also looking into a one-way system for Percy Street, by the paddling pool and play area, which is often used by motorists looking for a shortcut from Chesterway, along Percy Street, Whalley Road, Brockhurst Way and back to Chesterway by Victoria Bridge.

Cllr Andrew Cooper said: "What people were suggesting is that the end of Percy Street to Chesterway should be one way only – it would eliminate the rat run element but people can still get to Tesco, they wouldn't have to go all the way round to Verdin Park."

Cllr Kevin Rimmer said: "With lighter nights children are out playing later and more and more people are using Percey Street as a rat run.

"It's a potential serious accident waiting to happen."