Patrols '˜to be stepped up' in Chesterfield neighbourhood plagued by problem parking

The Derbyshire Times was sent photographs of cars in Holymoorside parked across pavements, on grass verges and blocking dropped kerbs.

The resident who sent them to us - who has asked not to be named - said the problem has been going on ‘for years’ but ‘nothing ever gets done’.

He added that he has reported the problems to ‘multiple agencies, multiple times’ but ‘nothing changes’.

When he has reported the issue it to police, he said complaints were passed on to his Derbyshire County Council for ‘civil enforcement’.

The resident said that the problem ‘gets worse every year’ but his latest emails to the local policing team received ‘no replies’.

He added the only person so far has shown any willingness to tackle the problem has been a local councillor, Martin Thacker.

Now, after his complaint was taken up by the DT, highways bosses say extra patrols will be carried out in the village to stop people parking dangerously.

The county council is responsible for managing the enforcement of on-street regulations, although the police can tackle issues such as obstruction.

Civil enforcement officers - who replaced traditional traffic wardens - also have the power to deal with any vehicles double parked or on dropped kerbs.

A spokesperson for the county council said: “We are aware of concerns around cars parking at this location which is very close to a school.

“As there are no double yellow lines, the council’s powers to deal with inconsiderate parking are very limited.

“We can, however, issue penalty charge notices where cars are blocking dropped kerbs and crossing points and will be carrying out extra patrols in this area to tackle the issue.”

A police spokesman added: “Parking enforcement is a civil issue and is dealt with by the council. We do receive reports from members of the public and we regularly forward these on to our partners so they are aware of any recurring problems.”

n Report parking issues on 01629 533190 or email [email protected].