More than 300 people attended a public meeting to discuss the thorny issue of parking controls.

Residents from the Cassiobury Estate squeezed into a Colosseum meeting room on Monday night to discuss the proposed implementation of a controlled parking zone (CPZ).

Many argue the area is blighted by the cars of students, shoppers, and commuters – who effectively use the area as a “free car park” – and argue something needs to be done.

Some traders, however, worry that introducing stringent restrictions could drive away customers and inconvenience staff.

A consultation period is now underway, with a series of official recommendations expected in December. Any approved scheme is likely to be implemented in the Spring.

Councillor George Derbyshire, who helped arrange the area forum meeting, said he was “overwhelmed” by the number of people who attended.

Once the scheme, in the Park Ward, is finalised, a similar consultation is likely to take place in the neighbouring Nascot ward.