BURY Council is to offer residents a choice over the type of car parking permits they can use.

Residents will now be able to choose between either a virtual or paper car parking permit.

The announcement follows the introduction by the council of a new online system in the area surrounding Fairfield General Hospital last month.

The system, which was planned to be rolled out across the borough month-by-month, had been designed to overcome some issues associated with paper permits, including being lost in the post and people forgetting to display them.

However, a number of concerns were highlighted, such as some resident's lack of internet access, or difficulty travelling to libraries or the town hall to fill out forms.

A public meeting was also held in Jericho Methodist Church, in Rochdale Old Road, on January 29, and an hour-long discussion held with councillors about such concerns.

Councillor Judith Kelly, cabinet member for corporate affairs and regulatory services, said: “We introduced the online permits with the best of intentions, but it has become apparent that some of our residents cannot use the new system.

“We’ve listened to their concerns and have therefore decided to offer all permit holders a choice – to have an online permit, with the convenience that that offers, or to stick with the traditional paper permit. We hope this meets everyone’s needs and will be widely welcomed.”

Anyone due to switch to an online permit who is having difficulties, and wishes to remain with a paper permit, should contact the council on 01612535353.