Portable enforcement cameras are being brought in to combat inconsiderate motorists who park illegally in cycle lanes.
The Chorlton to Manchester Cycleway is one of the Council’s flagship cycling schemes. Providing a segregated cycling experience from a district centre to the heart of Manchester has been a key example of the Council’s commitment to providing people additional ways of travelling.
Unfortunately since the scheme’s completion it has been noted that a small minority of motorists have chosen to park across the cycle lane, blocking its intended purpose.
Not only is this illegal, but it is dangerous as it forces cyclists into the road to get around. For anyone in a wheelchair, with mobility issues or a pram this is especially hazardous, and something we want to avoid wherever possible.
In response to concerns raised by residents this is why from March 3, enforcement cameras will be in operation around the cycle route to monitor and penalise anyone caught breaking the law. This will be on top of the usual enforcement officers which patrol on foot.
Motorists who are caught parking in a cycle lane may be liable to pay a £70 penalty charge notice (PCN).
A driver issued with a PCN who believes it was incorrectly issued has the right to appeal the charge via the Council’s website.
Councillor Tracey Rawlins, Executive Member for Clean Air, Environment and Transport said: “After the completion of any major scheme we listen to feedback around how it’s working, and sadly people have reported frequent problems with vehicles being parked in the cycle lanes.
“These lanes are intended to be a quick and safe way for people wanting to cycle to and from the city centre. However, if people are confronted with cars and vans parked on the lanes, they are rendered totally useless.
“It’s not only inconsiderate to those trying to use them, but incredibly dangerous forcing people into the main road to go around an obstacle. Hopefully this period of additional enforcement will encourage people to think twice before parking illegally and plan their journeys ahead.
“In Manchester we are working to improve opportunities to walk and cycle and over time we hope to encourage a ‘people first’ mindset, rather than vehicles. Ultimately and most importantly we want Manchester to be clean, safe and attractive for everyone.”
