NEW parking restrictions have been put in place to stop drivers churning up grass verges along a busy road.

Concerns have been raised regarding the number of vehicles parked in the unrestricted areas of Cowdray Avenue in Colchester - even driving councillor Darius Laws to turn road referee and begin issuing yellow cards to rogue motorists.

While the vehicles were not breaking any rules, they damaged the grass verges including the annual daffodil display.

Now the North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) has put new temporary restrictions in place.

This includes a waiting restriction running from The Albert roundabout on Cowdray Avenue to The Greenstead roundabout on St Andrew’s Avenue.

Notices have been placed along the route to advise drivers that they should not park on the verge.

A spokesman for the NEPP said: "The effectiveness of this order will be monitored and can remain in place for up to 18 months during which time this restriction can be made permanent if required."

Councillor Robert Mitchell, chairman of the North Essex Parking Partnership, said: “We are pleased to have been able to work in partnership with the local authorities and communities to come up with a solution to the parking issues in Cowdray Avenue. The timing is also perfect to help protect this year's daffodil display along that stretch of road.”

“The NEPP aims to ensure parking across north Essex is safe, fair and of a consistent standard. We hope that this Order will protect our valuable green spaces from inconsiderate parking."