WATCH: Anger grows over ‘horrendous’ Corby railway parking problems
Corby Old Village residents have spoken out after often being left unable to park next to their homes due to rail passengers leaving cars in the neighbourhood.
The Northants Telegraph has previously reported about growing parking problems in the area in recent years, but residents say that the issue has continued to escalate following an increase in parking charges at Corby railway station.
Since daily charges at the station rose from £3.50 to £10 in December 2024, locals say that passengers have been parking their vehicles along streets in the area, including Waverly Avenue, Scott Road, St Peter’s Way and Southall Road to avoid the fees.
Concerned residents have claimed that some vehicles have been left for up to two weeks as rail travellers stay in London for work or go on holiday.
Local residents, many who said they were afraid to speak on camera due to possible backlash, spoke to this paper about how cars parked on corners and the pavement has led to access difficulties for both businesses and residents, causing anxiety and stress.
One resident said emergency services were unable to travel down streets and police even had to tow vehicles.
Town councillor Mark Pengelly is calling on North Northants Council and East Midlands Railway to address the issue.
An East Midlands Railway spokesman said: “We're fully supportive of trying to find ways to address the issues by creating more car park space around the station.
"However, we do not have any spare land within our Network Rail lease to increase parking provision and at present our funding constraints do not enable us to pursue other viable land around the station which could be suitable.”
A North Northants Council spokesman said: “North Northamptonshire Council recognises the concerns expressed by residents about parking in Corby Old Village.
"The area’s historic character, narrow roads and limited parking availability create ongoing challenges and we acknowledge the impact these issues can have on the local community.
“Our parking enforcement team regularly patrols the area and takes action where parking contraventions are identified, including issuing penalty charge notices.
"Our team do not have powers to physically move vehicles from the area, but we are confident that continued patrols and active engagement with drivers is having a positive effect.
"We have also previously held meetings with residents, councillors and the local MP about the possibility of a residents parking scheme.
"We are aware that there are positives and negatives to schemes like this and there is a broad range of views in the community about the introduction of a permit scheme.
"The general feedback was that a residents parking permit scheme would not be suitable.
"Since the introduction of increased prices at the train station, we have continued to monitor occupancy and compliance within the station car park.
"Occupancy is where we would expect it to be and the car park is well utilised at around 90 to 95 per cent with no indications of demand/usage dropping at the site.”