Residents and businesses are calling for tougher deterrents to keep their streets safe and clear on Norwich City match days.

A permit-parking zone ends halfway along Long John Hill, Lakenham, allowing any motorist to leave their vehicle in a suitable position in the road or in neigh-bouring streets at any time during the week. But concerns have been raised about cars lining the streets before and during Norwich City games at Carrow Road.

Some vehicles have been spotted using grass verges, with others obstructing pedestrians on the pavement or traffic.

Steve Lemmon, who lives off Netherwood Green and is a City supporter, said: 'I think it's dangerous. Does it take a child to be run over or a head-on collision for something to be done about it?'

Residents are also asking for signs to be placed in the entrance to their street on match days, similar to those used in Newton Close, Trowse Newton, and Conesford Drive, Lakenham. The signs warn: 'Police notice – residents' parking only'.

Business owners in Long John Hill say shoppers can not access their car park because football fans leave vehicles in spaces.

Peter Wood, of PW Angling, said: 'People will pull away from the businesses if they can't park up. It's hard enough as it is for traders without all that.'

Janet Neale, owner of Oasis Stores, said signs indicating the car park was for shoppers' only had disappeared but they were happy to pay for a new one.

A Norwich City Council spokesman said if issues were identified then they would explore how they could be dealt with.

What do you think of match day parking in Norwich? Email eveningnewsletters@archant.co.uk