NORTH Herts District Council has retreated on plans to introduce residents parking permits in an area of Hitchin, for the time being at least. The council had recommended that the Hitchin area committee rubber stamp the plans at their next meeting on Mar

NORTH Herts District Council has retreated on plans to introduce residents' parking permits in an area of Hitchin, for the time being at least.

The council had recommended that the Hitchin area committee rubber stamp the plans at their next meeting on March 7.

But this week the council put a brake on any decision being made after a series of protests from residents in the area bordered by Nightingale Road, Walsworth Road and Verulam Road and will now make the decision at a later date.

One group, the Triangle Residents Association Against the Parking Scheme (TRAPS) went as far as warning councillors would face a rough ride if they attempted to endorse the plan.

John Bown, spokesman for TRAPS, claims residents are furious and feel betrayed by the council.

"The word betrayal is perhaps an understatement," said Mr Bown of Florence Street.

"This is a victory for us and we couldn't have asked for more than a fair hearing and to be listened to. This is a victory for democracy.

"The council tried to push this through without a democratic process. Now, hopefully, we will be heard and any plans for parking permits will be dropped.

"The whole business of parking permits is politically motivated and not for the benefit of residents at all. It has not been proved the parking congestion is caused by commuters."

Mr Bown added: "We will do everything we possibly can to stop this scheme being forced upon residents."

A spokesman for the council said: "In view of the feedback from residents these proposals and any others that come forward will be subject to a more formal consultation.

"The proposed scheme, due to be considered by the Hitchin area committee on March 7, will now be considered at a later date.