Now the city council wants to set up talks with the larger marching organisation in an attempt to cut the number.

A report to councillors says the problem is caused by feeder parades to and from the main walk of the day. It adds: "There remains a perception by the public that there are still too many local parades, with organisations marching on many occasions three times in one day for the same event.

"In some circumstances, there are local parades prior to and after the morning feeders and afternoon returns, meaning there are five parades by some organisations on the same day for the same event.

"The afternoon parades stretch police resources and their strong preference is for morning parades because there is less likelihood of public disorder through consumption of alcohol.

"Some of the main parading organisations strongly oppose any attempt to reduce the number of parades. Some others, however, do see merit in discussions to reach a longer term agreement."

Council bosses now want to start talks with the larger marching organisations that arrange feeder parades, including the Orange Order, Apprentice Boys Of Derry and the Royal Black Institution in the hope of agreeing a new voluntary code.