Parked vehicles causing an obstruction could face being towed

New removal powers have been introduced in the BCP Council area to tackle illegal parking in cases where parked vehicles are causing an obstruction.

Towing away of vehicles will complement the existing enforcement ticketing operation in place across the conurbation but will only be used where parked vehicles are causing significant problems such as a dangerous hazard.

The initial operation will run from the end of July to the end of September before being reviewed ahead of a decision on whether to roll it out permanently.

Councillor Andy Hadley, Portfolio holder for Transport and Infrastructure, said: “This is a decision not taken lightly but as a result of the significant volume of illegally parked cars experienced, particularly at Sandbanks and Bournemouth seafront; we have no choice but to take action. I hope we rarely have to use the power and people instead choose to park responsibly but everyone should be aware we now have this option at our disposal if they choose otherwise.”

The option to tow has been rolled out across the whole area of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and not just in seafront locations. Vehicles which flout parking rules and are left on double yellow lines, across driveways, cycle lanes, on verges or too close to junctions blocking sight lines could be towed-away.

Vehicles removed will be subject to the Government-set fine of £150 and face up to £20 a day storage fee for every 24 hours their car is left before being collected.

Enforcement officers will continue to patrol all areas including car parks to ensure everyone is parking appropriately.