The owner of a Durham garage business has slammed the painting of new double yellow lines across the entrance to his workshop, The Northern Echo has reported.

Chris Owers, director of CO Car Repairs, claims the new parking restrictions are unnecessary and are deterring people from entering his property.

But the road by the kerbside opposite, on the rear of Church Street in Langley Park, where there is a problem, has no double yellows.

He said: “I did see the plans but I did not think it was going to go right across the front.

“I though it would stop at either side.

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“When older people see double yellow lines they think of fines and danger so no-one will cross over the lines to park in my garage.

“They are parking down the street so I have to go down and bring them back up.

“I think older people will stop coming, it deters them.

“I am very concerned about it.”

Dave Wafer, the council’s head of transport and contract services, said: “We were asked to introduce parking and waiting restrictions in this location by Durham Constabulary, residents and a county councillor, in response to difficulties with obstructive parking, access and visibility.

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“We sent details of the proposal for double yellow lines to all premises along the road where they were to be painted including Mr Owers and he did not respond.

“A formal consultation also took place and again Mr Owers did not respond.

“We always strive to support businesses and we hope that by stopping parked cars blocking the entrance to Mr Owers’ garage, he will benefit as it should ensure unobstructed access for customers.”