Controversial plans to charge residents living near Wolves’ Molineux ground £10 a year for guaranteed parking spaces outside their homes have been officially scrapped.

Wolverhampton City Council’s ruling Tory cabinet admitted defeat, saying the Liberal Democrat group effectively blocked the plan after it was thrown out at a December council meeting. Liberal Democrats said it was unfair to penalise people for living by the ground. Tory councillor Paddy Bradley told last night’s cabinet meeting: “I suppose you could say that democracy has won the day.

“I was told at the full council meeting that this yearly parking charge was not wanted, so I have to accept it.

“I admit defeat gracefully on this occasion.

“It is a shame but the Liberal Democrats took a view and there is nothing I can do about it.

“Unfortunately, we have to scrap the idea.”

Plans also proved unpopular with residents who live near the ground, according to feedback to the council over the last few months.

People who live by the stadium in Waterloo Road want parking permits to stop football fans clogging their streets but do not want to pay for them.

The council says it would have to have a yearly charge if it introduced a scheme so it could pay for itself. It is about to cut £40 million from its budget over the next two years and says fresh investment in parking enforcement around the ground on matchdays is unlikely because of financial pressures.

When Wolves play at home, many fans leave their cars in nearby residential streets, causing residents a headache.

Bob Barratt, head of highways, said: “We will continue with the current arrangements for matchdays around Molineux and hope the parking situation gets better.

“We want to see more intensive enforcement around that area but at the moment that’s all we have.”