RESIDENTS plagued by commuters using their streets to park in before getting the train to London have been given a festive boost.

The North Essex Parking Partnership has implemented a residents’ parking scheme in Abbott’s Lane and Old Halstead Road, in Eight Ash Green.

If residents only park in their driveways, they will not need to buy a permit, but anyone who wants to park on the road must have a permit, at a cost of £60. A second permit rises to £75.

Robert Mitchell, chairman of partnership, said: “The local community approached the partnership to request this scheme and having listened to and consulted with the community, who were able to evidence local support and a real need for it; we have now implemented this scheme to address the parking issue.”