A BUSINESSMAN says the residents' parking permit debate in Marlow has taken an 'unpleasant twist' after some of his staff were verbally abused and had their cars vandalised.

David Rowley, Chief Executive of High Street based Open Health, revealed three of his workers have had their vehicles keyed this month.

Others have encountered verbal abuse and signs have been placed on windows.

Police have been informed.

Residents in different parts of Marlow have been calling for parking permits, with those in the Riley Park area stepping up their campaign after Sainsbury's opened nearby in West Street.

Many have expressed their anger and frustration at ongoing problems trying to park outside their own homes.

The staff at Open Health who have been targeted have parked in and around Institute Road.

Mr Rowley, also a Marlow resident, said he can see the issue from both perspectives.

"Recently however there has been an unpleasant twist which reflects poorly upon the town and some of its residents," he said.

"My staff have experienced verbal abuse from residents, notices stuck on their car windows and three staff have had their cars badly keyed in broad daylight."

Posters have been put on cars saying: "Please do not park here as it is intended for residents and Station Road shopping not leaving your car all day to avoid car park charges."

Mr Rowley said: "I wasn't surprised about the stickers, in the past we've had that, but I was surprised to find that people had had their cars damaged.

"I'm surprised people would take it that far."

Meena Shinh, an Account Manager, had her car keyed twice in quick succession during the day when she was working.

"Obviously I was really annoyed about it, anyone would be," said Mrs Shinh, who commutes from near Heathrow.

"The second time I was more annoyed. It almost felt like quite personal.

"It's not like we have loads of places to choose to park.

"We are not parking in any places where there are any lines or restrictions, we are not breaking the law in any way by parking there.

"I can understand residents get annoyed but I'd be more comfortable if they came out and spoke to you about it."

Police confirmed her Mercedes, parked in Institute Road, was damaged on March 8.

Call PCSO Stuart Burt via the 101 number if you have any information.