DRIVERS were left baffled after parking rules in a town-centre street changed without notice.

Parking in Silver Street, Ramsbottom, was restricted while building work took place on the corner of Bridge Street.

The restriction was introduced for health and safety reasons when scaffolding was erected and signs were put up warning drivers they faced fines.

But Ramsbottom resident Nick Parker, who was fined £35 for parking there, was angry when he returned to find the restrictions had been lifted, despite the scaffolding remaining.

Mr Parker contested his fine, claiming he had not seen the signs, but it was rejected.

He said: “Which ever way you look at it, it is a scam.”

Bury Council say the mix-up was due to the building contractors not renewing the suspension.

A spokesman said: “On receiving a complaint about this matter, Bury Council advised the contractor to renew the suspension and this is now in place.”