Over two hundred problem parkers fined in first week of new measures
North Ayrshire Council repeated its advice to motorists
Over two hundred North Ayrshire drivers were fined in the first week of new parking measures being enforced.
The local authority’s new Parking Enforcement Officers caught 240 motorists during the first seven days of fines being introduced.
Officially titled the Decriminalisation of Parking Enforcement (DPE), the scheme was trialled with warnings to people who parked their cars on pavements, double yellow lines or in disabled bays without a blue badge from 28th March 2024.
Drivers receiving warning notices during this initial period were not subject to a fine.
But that changed last Monday, 15th April, with the enforcement officers issuing £100 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) to vehicles parked in contravention of the parking restrictions.
This is reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
Now, following the first few days, a North Ayrshire Council spokesperson reiterated their advice to people who are unsure of the new laws.
They said: “Drivers are advised to check local parking signage for restrictions when parking their vehicle.
“If possible, motorists are asked to take advantage of the many free car parks available across North Ayrshire.
“It is hoped that the new parking enforcement changes will help ensure roads remain clear, improve safety for pedestrians such as wheelchair users and those with prams, and improve traffic flow as illegally parked vehicles can pose safety hazards and obstruct emergency access.”
At the time of the new policy beginning, SNP Councillor Tony Gurney said: “We want all drivers and pedestrians to go about their business safely and quickly.
“Illegal parking can be a real blight, particularly in our town centres, and we hope the introduction of Penalty Charge Notices can help encourage better and more responsible parking.
“Our advice would be always to park in a safe and legal manner and to take advantage of the many car parks we have across North Ayrshire. Even if it means walking a short distance further, it is not worth the risk of receiving a £100 fine.
“We hope to see lasting benefits for both residents and visitors by improving road safety and easing traffic congestion.”