RESIDENTS have called for action to deal with illegal and inconsiderate parking outside their homes.

Keith Atkinson, who lives on Plane Street in the Bastwell area of Blackburn, said motorists not only ignored the double yellow lines, but also parked on pavements, blocking access for pedestrians.

He said: “It’s really bad at weekends.

“Sometimes I can’t even get out of my front door, and a few times I’ve nearly been run over outside my house.”

Residents are asking the police and the council to enforce existing parking regulations, and to look at changing some road layouts to ease congestion.

Mr Atkinson said: “You get articulated lorries driving down this street.

“These roads are not suitable for lorries.”

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said the matter was being looked into.

He said: “Bastwell has a dedicated neighbourhood policing team and inconsiderate and illegal parking in the area is a PACT priority, alongside other road policing issues.

“We’ve carried out numerous operations in the past few weeks to tackle these concerns and we work closely with the council to address parking obstructions and breaches of double yellow lines. We urge people to park responsibly and will work within the legislation to address the on-going issue.

“If anybody would like to discuss the issue in more detail they should contact PC Joanne Carey on 01254 274815.”

Councillor Maureen Bateson, executive member for regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said parking enforcement officers were carrying out patrols.

She said: “Irresponsible parking is unnecessary and can cause great disruption to other drivers as well as pedestrians.

“Anyone concerned can submit an enforcement request at any time by calling 0845 608 5589, or by emailing parking services@blackburn.gov.uk.”