Inconsiderate drivers who double park and block dropped kerbs and driveways could soon be fined under new powers that will be taken up by Swindon Borough Council later this year.
Following a recent Cabinet meeting, the Council is proposing to implement powers under the Traffic Management Act which would see fines of up to £105 issued to offending drivers.
Councils in other areas of the country have already adopted these powers and the Council is planning to introduce enforcement across the borough from October this year.
The enforcement action is being introduced following concerns raised by residents over the effect this type of parking has on pedestrians with pushchairs, mobility scooters or those with visual impairments. In some parts of Swindon there are frequent complaints from residents who are unable to enter or leave their driveways because of obstruction caused by inconsiderate parking.
Vehicles being used for loading and unloading, emergency services, waste collection, and roadworks will be exempt from the restrictions.
Officers will attend areas where complaints are raised, rather than patrolling streets across the borough, in order to make this an efficient and effective implementation of the powers. A system for reporting offences will be introduced later in the year, so residents can contact the Council’s Parking Team if there are any incidents of vehicles parked on dropped kerbs or driveways.
Councillor Fionuala Foley, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and the Environment, said: “Although I’m aware that there’s significant pressure on parking spaces in many areas of Swindon, parking across dropped kerbs and blocking driveways causes inconvenience and distress for many of our residents.
“We want to help the local community when these matters are raised and I hope that these enforcement powers will help to minimise inconsiderate parking in the future.”
Further details of the proposals can be found on the Council’s website, and any comments in relation to this proposal can be made in writing to the Head of Highways and Transport, at the Civic Offices, Swindon SN1 2JH or by e-mail to trafficmanager@swindon.gov.uk by 30 July 2018.