MOTORISTS have slammed an “utterly selfish” parking ban that could see drivers slapped with hundreds of pounds worth of fines.
The fresh ruling means drivers could receive eye-watering fees for pavement parking, double parking or parking at dropped kerbs across the region.
The legislation will be put into practice from November 11 after Aberdeenshire Council and Aberdeen City Council announced the ban for the first time in July last year.
During that period, nearly 2000 motorists were issued warnings to trigger a change in parking habit, but now those rule-breakers will be forced to fork out if they don’t follow the law.
Drivers will be stung if they park at the end of roads, within cul-de-sacs or on zebra crossings.
If they offend, motorists will be stung with a £100 fine, though that may be halved if they pay the fee within two weeks.
“Pavement parking creates serious risks, especially for vulnerable pedestrians,” Councillor Alan Turner said.
“People using wheelchairs and mobility aids, and those with visual impairments, can be forced into the road when pavements are blocked, significantly increasing the chance of accidents.
“As a council, we carefully assessed the region’s pavements and applied appropriate exemptions where legislation would allow.
“I am very impressed with the level of education our small parking team has undertaken, and I thank all those who have changed their parking habits, which is making our network safer for pedestrians.”
However, he explained that the council has to be realistic with expectations for the ban as they have limited resources, and “cannot be in every street every minute of the day or outside every school at peak times”.
However, residents in the targeted areas have slammed the move, with many flocking to social media to make their views known.
One fumed: “Aberdeenshire Council, this is a joke.
“Another set of rules that you can’t enforce and expect the under-resourced police to pick up the slack.
“About time to get rid of the Community Wardens and replace them with Traffic Wardens.”
The Sun Online has reached out to Aberdeenshire Council and Aberdeen City Council for comment.
BONFIRE NIGHT WARNING
It comes after drivers were warned of a little-known firework law that could land them a hefty fine and even points on their licence.
With Bonfire Night just days away, an expert has reminded motorists that it is illegal to buy and transport too many fireworks.
Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, has urged drivers to be extra careful if they’re planning to transport fireworks this week, and to follow the rules carefully.
The law states that drivers caught travelling with in excess of 50 kg of fireworks could face hefty punishments unless they hold a valid registration or licence to do so – including fines of £300 and even six penalty points on their licence.
There’s also the risk of invalidating their insurance cover.
Conway said: “It is against the law for anyone to buy and transport more than 50 kg of fireworks unless they hold a valid registration or licence.
“Some motor insurers will cover drivers who have bought fireworks for use at a personal display.
“However before even considering transporting them, it is important to check with your provider if you are covered.
“When transporting fireworks, it is extremely important to take safety precautions as they can be extremely dangerous if they were to ignite or combust.”
