UK transport officials have set out a series of parking enforcement measures they want local authorities to introduce that will keep traffic moving and ‘not raise money’.
The draft guidelines set out for consultation include wheel clamping only the most persistent offenders, a more ‘motorist-friendly’ appeals process, regular reviews of parking policies and clearer regulation and signing, including lines on the road.
Edmund King, executive director of the RAC Foundation, welcomed the plans, saying: ‘Clamping a car for over-staying on a meter makes no sense, as the parking place is then blocked for a longer period of time.
‘Clamping, both on-street and off-street, should only be used to target persistent offenders as a last resort. Clamping is a crude activity, which should have been outlawed at the time of Dick Turpin.
‘Over-zealous enforcement, confusing signs and lines, and the belief that councils are using parking fines to raise revenue rather than keep traffic moving are all issues that motorists raise with us. We hope this guide will lead to a fairer regime.’
Transport Secretary 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.’
Fleet experts have previously said any relaxation in parking rules would be welcomed by the industry.
David Dippie, chairman of the London West region of fleet operators’ association ACFO said it was particularly good news for delivery companies.
He said: ‘Businesses cannot operate if they can’t deliver so if wardens become intelligent in the way they issue fines, businesses will be able to drop and unload, which will speed up deliveries and make them more efficient.’
It is hoped the new plans will become into effect by the middle of next year.
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