Parking Services
Thoughtless drivers who hinder routes for emergency vehicles, block short stay spaces and illegally use disabled spots are being advised that parking wardens will be issuing penalties on Walsall’s streets from 1 April 2009.
Walsall Council is poised to take on Civil Parking Enforcement - relieving West Midlands Police of the role and freeing up uniformed officers to tackle crime across the borough.
The Department for Transport has set the start date of 1 April 2009 for the borough and Walsall Council is now awaiting Ministerial approval following a lengthy legal process.
Councillor Anthony Harris, Walsall Council cabinet member for transport, said: “The vast majority of motorists who travel in and around Walsall do so responsibly and this switch-over will not affect them.
“But those who leave their vehicles with no regard for emergency vehicles that need to pass, or illegally use disabled spaces will no longer be able to get away with such thoughtless actions.
“This move will also help the borough’s businesses which complain to us about people blocking short stay parking spaces, affecting their trade.
“Police officers need to be putting all their efforts into tackling crime not tackling parking problems caused by irresponsible drivers which is why Walsall Council drew up plans to take on the duty in the first place.
”We are committed to making all parts of the borough as accessible as possible so that residents, workers and visitors can go about their business smoothly. I hope that people will understand the reasons for this move and will co-operate as it is in the best interests of all of our communities."
Walsall Council is working with parking industry leaders Apcoa Parking UK Ltd which works in Sandwell, Wolverhampton and Solihull and 22 wardens will initially be on the streets.
Civil parking enforcement leaflet
Don't get caught out on April 1st (PDF 697KB)
This page was last updated on 15 March 2010