PARKING problems have been blamed on motorists confused by new regulations.

Highway chiefs have reacted after businesses in Blackburn Road, Astley Bridge, claimed restrictions were driving customers away.

Estate agent Julian King fears shops will have to relocate if action isn't taken to provide better facilities.

Mr King, who has been trading there for more than two years, believes the problems began when the council took over responsibility for enforcing parking restrictions in August.

But highways chiefs say the problem is caused by confused motorists.

Now they have provided a full explanation of what the road markings mean.

A spokesman said: "Special parking bays outside shops and businesses have not been used because of confusion over lines painted in the bays.

"The council has been updating traffic signs and road markings to make it easier for motorists to understand."

Double yellow lines, he says, mean there can be no parking at any time.

Single yellow lines mean drivers can park at certain times only.

Drivers can park in bays where broken white lines have replaced broken yellows.

The spokesman said. "Signs show how the bay may be used.

"Drivers should look at these to see when they are allowed to park there."