CHANGES to parking restrictions will be in force across Malvern next month.
From Tuesday, November 12, Malvern Hills District Council will become responsible for enforcing on-street parking regulations instead of the police.
The move will see restrictions remain the same but the council has pledged to refurbish road markings and signs to make sure they are as clear as possible.
It is hoped the change will ease congestion currently caused by cars parked inconsiderately as well as improving road safety and increasing trade for businesses by freeing up spaces outside shops.
The majority of parking penalties in the district would no longer be a criminal matter with civil enforcement officers patrolling instead of wardens.
A penalty charge will be issued to anyone who does not park in accordance with the rules, such as parking at bus stops and failing to have a valid parking ticket.
The fines will either be £50 or £70 depending on how serious the breech was, which would be reduced by 50 per cent if it is paid within 14 days.
If there was any income from fines left over after the costs of running the service had been deducted, it would be passed back to Worcestershire County Council and used for traffic management improvements.
Any income from fines issued on the council’s car parks will be available to the district council to use as it wishes.
Signs will also be placed around entrances to Malvern, Upton and Tenbury to notify drivers about the new arrangements, while leaflets and posters have also been distributed.
Ivor Pumfrey, the district council’s head of community services, urged drivers to pay extra attention to where they park their cars.
“The regulations are in place to improve our roads for drivers and pedestrians alike. This means there is a quicker turnover of parking spaces and help to encourage the use of specific parking spaces and bays including those for taxis, loading and people with disabilities.
“Please take care over where you leave your vehicle.”
Visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk for more information.
