Enforcement notices curb bad parking by motorists claim.
An enforcement scheme targeting commuters who park badly at railway and Midland Metro stations across the West Midlands is being hailed a success by transport chiefs.
The number of parking notices issued to motorists using Park and Ride facilities dropped from 241 in the first week to 141 by the eighth.
The scheme was introduced by Centro, the region’s public transport co-ordinator, after a string of incidents involving badly parked vehicles obstructing other motorists and forcing pedestrians to walk in the road at stations.
Following a major information campaign the scheme came into operation on September 29, with officers visiting 59 station car parks around the region where Centro provides more than 7,500 free car parking spaces for commuters.
Cllr Roger Horton, lead member for rail and Midland Metro for Centro, said the scheme was about ensuring customers can use Park and Ride safely and preventing a small minority of customers from parking inconsiderately. “Although tickets are still being issued, and despite a small rise in weeks six and seven of the scheme, the overall steady reduction in numbers shows the message is getting through,” he said.
“We are glad the campaign is having the desired effect and making people think about parking more considerately. We hope motorist behaviour will continue to improve and the amount of notices issued over the coming weeks and months will reduce.”
Work is also underway to add 360 spaces to the existing 382 at Rowley Regis, 223 were being added to the 789 at Stourbridge Junction and 100 spaces were being added to the 220 at Kings Norton.
A re-design is also due to take place at Sandwell and Dudley station next year which would add to the current 374 spaces. “Park and Ride is extremely popular which is why many car parks are full by 8am on weekdays,” Said Stephen Rhodes, Centro director of operation.
He added, “Motorists can play their part by giving themselves enough time to get a space then parking correctly, but they could also ask themselves if they really need to drive to the station at all. Many people live less than a mile from the station and could catch the bus, cycle or walk, something which would not only benefit their health but free up spaces for those who really do need to drive.”
Mr Rhodes said as well as the expansion projects there would be an increase in vehicle sharing bays at stations while cycle hubs and shelters would also continue to be rolled out to offer commuters an alternative to the car.
