14 drivers spoken to about ‘unsafe and inconsiderate’ parking around Northampton schools with some ignoring request and found back on double yellows
A total of 14 drivers were spoken to about unsafe and inconsiderate parking on the school run with some having to be spoken to ‘on more than one occasion’ after they were caught ignoring rules for a second time.
Officers from Northamptonshire Police and Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service conducted a joint road safety operation on Tuesday October 22 within the Eastfield and Parklands areas to address ongoing concerns regarding unsafe and inconsiderate parking around schools.
The team work closely with schools with an aim to teach and promote road safety, and staff regularly communicate with parents and carers about the importance of safe and considerate parking during drop-off and collection times, according to officers.
The operation focused on Booth Lane, Queenswood Avenue, Churchill Avenue, Spinney Hill Road, Oulton Rise and Coppice Drive.
During the 40-minute exercise, a total of 14 drivers were spoken to regarding their parking. Issues identified included parking on junctions and corners, stopping near or on pedestrian crossings, parking on double yellow lines, double parking, and obstructing access for emergency vehicles.
A spokesperson for the Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Unfortunately, several drivers had to be spoken to on more than one occasion.
"During patrols along Spinney Hill Road, officers completed the route twice and found that some vehicles had returned to the same double yellow lines they had previously been asked to move from, despite the restrictions being necessary to maintain access for the fire appliance involved in the operation.”
Officers said the operation highlights issues that emergency services encounter on a daily basis.
Vehicles parked inconsiderately or illegally can delay the response of police, fire and ambulance crews attending emergencies. Even small delays can have serious consequences when emergency services are responding to incidents where lives, property or public safety are at risk.
A spokesperson continued: “Parents and carers are reminded that parking restrictions are in place for the safety of all road users, particularly children. Whether you intend to stop for two minutes or twenty, it is never acceptable to park illegally or in a manner that causes an obstruction.
“We ask everyone collecting or dropping off children to consider residents, other motorists, pedestrians and emergency services when choosing where to park. A few extra minutes' walk can make a significant difference to the safety of the school environment and help ensure emergency vehicles can access the area when needed.
“Thank you to the many parents and carers who park responsibly and help keep our communities safe. Further joint operations will be conducted in the future to promote safe and considerate parking practices and help keep our roads safe for everyone.”