Local authorities have a duty to tackle dangerous parking and the Traffic Management Act 2004 allows councils to enforce parking contraventions by CCTV camera in problem areas.

Wolverhampton City Council deployed a CCTV vehicle in order to address parking at hotspots or problem areas where motorists are putting the safety of others at risk and causing unnecessary congestion.

Where does the CCTV vehicle operate?

The council has identified 'problem areas', including:

  • roads with yellow zigzag markings (school keep clear markings)
  • bus stops

Problem areas are identified by gathering evidence of vehicles parked in contravention of the parking restrictions on three separate occasions over a one week period. After three months each area is reassessed to determine if the problem still exists.

However, it should be noted that the CCTV vehicle may observe other vehicles parked in contravention of parking restrictions when recording in a hotspot/problem area.

CCTV camera car parking

In order for the CCTV vehicle to carry out enforcement activities safely, if there are no suitable parking spaces it is allowed to park in contravention of parking rules. However, the CCTV vehicle is not allowed to park in disabled bays, suspended bays, bus stops and taxi ranks.

How does the CCTV camera enforcement work?

The CCTV enforcement vehicle is driven by trained operatives, who are already experienced Civil Enforcement Officers. The onboard CCTV system automatically records any vehicles parked in contravention of the Traffic Regulation Orders and the information is then securely uploaded to the council's Parking Enforcement management system.

The footage will then be reviewed and a Senior Council Officer will determine if a parking contravention has occurred.

If a contravention has occurred, a Parking fines - Penalty Charge Notices will be sent to the address of the registered keeper/owner/hirer of the vehicle, by post, within 28 days of the date of the alleged contravention. The PCN will be accompanied by photographic evidence of the parking contravention.

Benefits of CCTV camera Enforcement

  • Reduces traffic congestion.
  • Improves road safety and reduce accidents.
  • Improves journey times for bus users.
  • Allows the free flow of traffic.
  • Acts as a visible car crime deterrent.
  • Provides traffic management data.

Appeals

If you receive a Penalty Charge Notice and think you have a valid reason to appeal, the PCN will explain the appeals process.

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