Agenda item

The Panel are to consider a report on Civil Parking Enforcement.

Consideration was given to a report by the Head of Operations (a copy of which has been appended in the Minute Book) on Civil Parking Enforcement (CPE). Following an introduction by the Executive Councillor for Operations and Environment, Councillor Alban sought reassurance on whether the local constabulary would continue to enforce parking. The Panel were informed that the local constabulary would continue to undertake parking enforcement but that it was likely that requests for enforcement would be made via the Council due to public perception of how enforcement worked. Members were also informed that there was scope for joint enforcement operations, when appropriate.

Councillor Giles asked for clarification of how the money from penalties would be handled. It was confirmed that the Council would put this money towards the service’s operating costs. The Council was not legally allowed to make a surplus and, given the rural nature of the District, this was highly unlikely.

Clarification was sought by Councillor Tysoe of how the service would be managed. It was confirmed that for the first two years of operation, the service would remain in-house. After that, an assessment would be made of which model offered best value to the Council. The Panel was reassured that regardless of the structure employed, the same legislative controls would apply.

Following a further question from Councillor Tysoe on whether parking enforcement would take place in the more rural areas of the District, it was confirmed that these areas would receive an appropriate level of service, which would be outlined within the Enforcement Policy. Councillor Criswell welcomed the clarification of parking enforcement for the rural areas of the District.

Councillor Wilson asked whether the Council was acquiring knowledge and experience from similarly profiled local authorities in order to achieve the best service outcomes for the District. The Panel was informed that this was occurring, and that the implementation of CPE was being led by the Head of Operations who had significant experience in this field. In addition, an expert advisor would be appointed to assist with the process.

In response to a question from Councillor Alban on the process for changing the designation of areas, the Panel was informed that the Council would have an agreement from the Highway Authority to enforce the restrictions in existence and that there was no budget for the provision of new restrictions. It was also confirmed that in order to enforce a restriction there would need to be a sign, a line and a traffic regulation order.

Following a discussion on the use of discretion, Councillor Criswell expressed the view that it was important for Civil Enforcement Officers to adhere to the law in order to be consistent. It was confirmed that this would be reflected within the future Enforcement Policy and appeal procedure. In conclusion, the Panel welcomed the proposal to introduce CPE and

RESOLVED

that the Cabinet be encouraged to endorse the recommendations contained within the report.