Evening parking enforcements in Shrewsbury

Following complaints about drivers parking incorrectly in Shrewsbury town centre in the evenings, causing a hazard for pedestrians and other road users, patrols are being introduced to ensure people are parking properly. 

Civil Enforcement Officers (CEOs) are carrying out evening parking enforcement exercises in the town centre during August (2013), issuing warning notices to vehicles parked in contravention of the restrictions. 

The main aim is to raise awareness among those who park indiscriminately that they are breaking the rules; however, in future months, Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) may be issued. 

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for parking enforcement, said:

“Parking in restricted areas is a violation of the law, and it’s important that drivers understand that restrictions are there for the safety of the public. 

“In order to improve traffic flows and keep pavements free for pedestrians, it is imperative that these rules are followed.  This has a knock-on effect of supporting businesses within the town centre and improving our night-time economy.” 

Shrewsbury town centre is a Restricted Parking Zone.  This means that no lines are painted on the road surfaces to indicate areas where waiting or loading restrictions apply, but signs are used to advise motorists of the restrictions and alternative methods of demarking bays are used, for example road studs or different coloured paving blocks. 

Signs are also placed on all roads as they enter the zone and within the zone where the restrictions might change.  Lines are not painted, either to reduce the negative aesthetic impact on the street or because the road surface makes using paint impractical or inappropriate. 

Andrew Bannerman, local Shropshire Councillor for Quarry and Coton Hill, said:

“Of course we welcome drivers to Shrewsbury in the evening, to enjoy the great entertainment and special ambience of our beautiful town.  There is plenty of parking and several car parks are free in the evening, so there is really no reason to spoil others’ enjoyment through thoughtless parking.”

For more information on parking call 0345 678 9019 or visit http://shropshire.gov.uk/parking.