RAIL passengers wanting to avoid parking costs at Oxenholme are causing a ‘nightmare’ for homeowners nearby by leaving their vehicles in residential areas, it is claimed.

Taxi driver Jeremy Saunders, who lives at Hayclose Lane on the Kendal Parks estate, says the problem is getting worse.

He said he had even missed a ferry crossing to Ireland because his motorhome was blocked into his driveway by vehicles parked along the road.

“They are leaving their cars around here and they’re leaving them for days or weeks at a time while they go on their holidays and it’s blocking our roads really badly,” said Mr Saunders, 63.

“Some days it can be horrendous but it’s just getting worse as time goes on.

“Some people are putting ‘no parking’ signs on their gates and when you bring it up with people doing it, they say they pay their taxes so they’re allowed.

“It’s an awkward one but something does need to be done for the residents because it’s a real pain.”

Mr Saunders believes the price of parking at Oxenholme – which starts at £12 a day – is leaving people with little choice but to park their cars elsewhere near the station.

In a response, Cumbria County Council said it works in partnership with Cumbria Police to jointly address on-street parking issues.

“The council’s civil enforcement officers undertake regular visits to Oxenholme Station and will issue penalty charge notices where parking contraventions are identified,” said a spokesperson.

“Council officers and councillors have previously met with local residents, and representatives from Virgin Trains and Cumbria Police to listen to residents’ concerns and better understand how parking provision and enforcement can be improved in the village.”

lResidents with on-street parking concerns are encouraged to contact the council’s parking services team on 0300 3032992 or parking@cumbria.gov.uk.