'MEAN-SPIRITED' residents have been criticised as 'unfair' plans to introduce double yellow lines on Chester Road were passed.

The council's traffic committee approved a recommendation to paint double yellow lines on the road in Walton last Tuesday – despite serious concerns.

Members considered objections from two Chester Road residents over the proposed parking restrictions, close to Elan Homes' Hall Gardens development.

The land was formerly home to the Ship Inn pub.

Elan Homes and those living on its development were strongly criticised for failing to 'accommodate' for the two residents before the decision was made.

Cllr Tony McCarthy (LAB – Rixton and Woolston) said: "We have mean-spirited residents.

"I find it shocking that they won’t allow two residents to park there.

"It is a sad situation – there is a lack of community spirit."

The estimated cost to put the double yellow lines in is £2,500.

But the associated works will be funded from the £10,000 secured as part of the section 106 agreement.

As well as the parking restrictions, it will also cover a change of speed limit.

Cllr Steve Parish (LAB – Chapelford and Old Hall) said: "It does seem, not just unfair, but also petty, about a bit of road."

Cllr Judith Wheeler (LD – Appleton) added: "It is sheer bloody-mindedness that Elan Homes will not accommodate for the two residents.

"The two residents only want to park safely on one of the most dangerous and busiest junctions in Warrington."

However, Elan Homes has responded to the criticism.

A spokeswoman said: "We have completed the Hall Gardens development in line with the planning permission and since its completion 12 months ago have attended several meetings with neighbouring residents, councillors and highway officers from Warrington Borough Council to discuss parking concerns.

"It is the council traffic committee’s priority to maintain public safety and by following the guidance provided by council officers through the planning and technical approval process Elan Homes has supported this priority."

The 30mph speed limit being introduced will be an extension of the existing 30mph speed limit that applies to the built-up area of Walton New Road.

It will terminate at the start of the dual carriageway – when heading south west – where it changes to 40mph.

The previous speed limit was 40mph.

The council said a specific timeframe for all of the work has not been set due to the 'detailed' design work required.