Parking wardens are on the brink of returning to the streets of Angus.
Under a scheme approved by councillors two years ago, Community Enforcement Wardens are being given the power to issue £60 fines.
Free parking will remain in Angus, but Angus Council hopes the introduction of the decriminalised arrangement will help end what has been condemned as a free-for-all in local burghs, with drivers regularly parking for lengthy periods in time-limited on-street spaces and ignoring single or double yellow lines.
The scheme had been due to come into place this month, but roads chiefs have issued a letter to bodies including local community councils sating that inconsiderate and illegal parkers can “be assured” that on-the-spot tickets will be issued from next month.
“The rules for parking in Angus haven’t changed,” said the authority.
“But now, with the change to legislation, the council will be able to take action against indiscriminate and illegal parking in our towns.
“We want to address the type of driver behaviour that causes concern and annoyance to local people and business.
“Our goal is good parking management brought about through education and firm but fair enforcement action.
“It will benefit the local economy and improve the safety and well-being of local communities.”
Police Scotland withdrew its traffic warden service in 2014, leaving front-line police officers to prioritise parking enforcement in addition to their other duties.
They will still be responsible for enforcing reportable offences, such as dangerous parking or obstruction, and there have been sporadic purges in towns including Montrose and Forfar which led to dozens of drivers being ticketed.
The council added: We want to keep Angus moving.
“There is lots of free off-street parking in Angus and no excuse for bad parking – it harms our local communities by creating road safety issues and it’s bad for our businesses and town centres.”
“We are asking drivers to pay attention to the kerbside lines and roadside signs, as well as sticking to the time limits set within our free parking areas.
“Only irresponsible parkers will receive a £60 ticket.
“Parking enforcement wardens will be patrolling streets across Angus in May to offer advice about good parking and warnings about bad parking.
“Be assured that they will start to issue tickets next month to offending vehicles.”
There has already been widespread social media support for the introduction of the new power, particularly around town centre parking, unlawful use of disabled spaces and problems around local schools.
