PARKING rules are being tightened on the Stanmore estate in Winchester, which could drive students and commuters further out of town.

Winchester City Council is making the changes after talks with residents.

Many struggle to park outside their homes during the day, with drivers from outside Winchester seizing upon the free spaces.

Stanmore is one of the last places in Winchester without bays for residents, but that will change on Monday, April 6.

From that day, the eastern end of Cromwell Road from its junction with Airlie Road to the post office and shops will be off limits. Under the new regime, non-residents will only be able to park for 60 minutes.

Businesses have also lobbied for the change, arguing that extra spaces for their customers are needed.

The restrictions will apply for a 300- yard stretch of road, and cut the number of free spaces by about 25.

Transport chiefs are also introducing dozens of “no waiting” areas across the estate near to road junctions. The rules will also apply to most of Milner Place, a small cul-de-sac off Stuart Crescent.

The idea is to stop motorists parking in spots that block traffic on the estate’s narrow roads.