Rhondda Cynon Taf Council say, 235 fines issued by Parking Enforcement Vehicle during September
More than 400 motorists have already been caught parking inconsiderately or dangerously by the Council’s Parking Enforcement Vehicle, during the whole of September – with the majority of these offences outside of schools across the County Borough.
The Council introduced the vehicle as a direct response to the concerns raised by residents, and in particular parents, regarding dangerous parking and, in the first month of use since Monday, September 3, 407 motorists have been caught parking unlawfully.
In addition to an extensive awareness raising campaign to ensure that residents are fully aware of the vehicle’s introduction, motorists observed parking inconsiderately were only issued with warning letters for the first two weeks, with the £70 Penalty Charge Notices only coming into effect from the third week of operation. Over this period, 172 warning letters were initially issued, with a further 235 PCNs subsequently handed out during the third week.
In total, 148 of the total offences recorded were committed outside of schools by motorists parking on Yellow Keep Clear markings, highlighting that the Council has taken the right approach in listening to the concerns of local parents; while a further 123 instances were located at pedestrian crossings.
Nigel Wheeler, Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council’s Director of Highways and Streetcare Services, said: “It is hugely disappointing to see more than 400 motorists being issued with warnings or fines over the first month of the Parking Enforcement Vehicle’s operation, especially in light of the extensive awareness raising and engagement efforts.
“Parking outside of a school is a known problem at peak morning and afternoon periods, and this has certainly been the focus of this operation. Several other Welsh Councils have introduced similar measures previously and they have proven to be effective ways of ensuring parking laws are adhered to.
“I would again reiterate that this vehicle is not a revenue-generating tool for the Council to use, and we certainly don’t wish to fine residents – we would far rather see drivers parking safely and responsibly. But if this vehicle is necessary to ensure that our children and residents remain safe then it is the approach that we will take.
“Parents have told us that unlawful and inconsiderate parking outside of schools is an issue that needs addressing and I think it’s fair to say that these figures show that the Council is committed to tackling poor parking behaviour, to ensure that children and residents of RCT can travel to school safely. Our message is clear – park sensibly and safely to avoid putting others at risk and avoid running the risk of a hefty fine.”
