Builders and tradesmen are angry that they can't get permits allowing them to park on double-yellow lines when they carry out work on shops and houses.

Brighton and Hove City Council has applied the restrictions in 50 Hove streets because of complaints from local residents.

There's little doubt that the permits were being over-used, if not abused, by some traders who simply parked where they liked when they liked, no matter what disruption they caused.

But the complete ban is causing problems for people such as decorators who need to have their supplies close at hand.

A little bit of common sense could solve this problem. The council should use its discretion in issuing permits to essential workers while refusing them where they are not really necessary.