RESIDENTS on a housing estate are calling for an end to a parking nightmare sparked by workers and students dumping their cars on their doorstep.

People living in Townhead in Glasgow's city centre say their lives have been made a misery by motorists using up all their spaces.

And with fears the situation will get worse as new restrictions are introduced on streets around the Necropolis and Glasgow Royal Infirmary today, the residents are demanding action.

They are calling for lockable bollards to be installed at Kennedy Street and Kennedy Path - and now local housing association Compass has agreed to investigate.

Residents say they've had enough of the parking problems which have gone on for years.

Last week the Evening Times reported how new parking meters close to the hospital - being introduced today - had sparked fury among medical staff who claimed they'd have nowhere to park.

But the residents say it's not just doctors and nurses who will suffer.

Streets around Townhead, including St Mungo Avenue, Kennedy Path. Kennedy Street and Taylor Place, have been plagued by workers leaving their cars from morning until night, often even parked up on pavements.

With high-rise tower blocks and flats in the area, and the hospital and Caledonian University nearby, parking has gradually got worse.

John Paterson, chairman of Townhead Action Group, said: "For years we have been complaining about the parking situation and it has got worse with the volume of cars coming into the city.

"We are a dumping ground for people who think they can park here all day for free and with restrictions close to the Royal Infirmary now it will reach a peak."

The action group has been campaigning for bollards to be installed. Residents would be given keys for access.

Mr Paterson added: "We have been told the bollards could be installed at some point this year and residents will each be given keys."

A spokeswoman for Glasgow Housing Association said: "Compass has been consulting with residents and the local elected representatives for some time now following complaints.

"Having listened to the views of the local people we are now investigating the possibility of installing lockable bollards as part of an overall package of environmental improvement works planned for the area."