Parking restrictions could be introduced on streets in Biggleswade in a bid to cut congestion that residents say is a health and safety hazard.

Biggleswade Town Council met to discuss proposed waiting restrictions in Dells Lane, Mead End, Broadmead and Coppice Mead – but residents who also turned out to the meeting on Tuesday said the proposals did not go far enough.

They branded them a 'sticking plaster' solution, and raised fears the measures would force more commuters into Tennyson Avenue, Chaucer Drive and Dickens Court.

Basil Backhouse, who spoke out against the plans, explained: "You can't get down there at all, it's completely dangerous. One person from Dickens Court had to carry his child to an ambulance because it couldn't get through."

A petition with almost 100 signatures was also handed to the town council.

And town councillors agreed that action was needed.

Councillor Wendy Smith said: "I have total sympathy with the residents of that area. I think we do need to put some sort of restriction on there.

"Long term we do need more solutions, but with the current financial situation and Land East not moving with any degree of speed it will be a time.

"Yes, it might push people elsewhere, but we just have to tackle these problems as they arrive."

Biggleswade Town Council agreed to contact Central Beds Council and ask for a two-hour no waiting period to be introduced.