Tough new parking enforcement measures

Plans for tough new measures to overhaul the country's system of civil parking enforcement have been unveiled by Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander.

The proposed changes cover more than 30 North West councils including Rochdale.

The draft guidelines make clear that the Government wants local authorities to use parking enforcement powers to keep the traffic flowing and not to raise money. The aim is a fairer system for all. The highlights of the Government's draft advice, which goes to public consultation today, include:

• Wheel clamping only for the most persistent parking penalty evaders
• More transparency and information for road users with authorities publishing their policies and reports
• Dedicated training for everyone involved in administering civil parking enforcement from on the street right up to the boardroom
• A more motorist-friendly appeals process with a penalty charge discount reoffered after an informal challenge
• More powers being given to the independent adjudicators to intervene where procedures have not been followed properly
• Regular review of parking policies by local authorities in consultation with stakeholders
• Persistent parking offenders targeted through a nationwide database

Secretary of State for Transport Douglas Alexander said: "The Government is determined to see a parking system that is fairer and more consistent. These proposals are a significant stride towards achieving that goal. We have listened to motorists and it is clear that the current system needs to be improved. Taken together, the proposals in this draft guidance will strengthen the system of civil parking enforcement and help local authorities tackle local congestion and keep the traffic moving."

Date article online: 13/07/2006