Drivers who park on new cycle superhighway face a fine COUNCIL WARNS MOTORISTS TO ADHERE TO SIGNAGE AND LINES
NORTH East Lincolnshire Council is asking road users to follow the rules of the new cycle superhighway after a motorist parked across one of the new bike lanes.
Work on the superhighway began in March this year, which led to large sections of the A180 being closed off, leaving many businesses and residents frustrated with long queues and traffic jams.
After being completed in late August, costing over £2.5 million, the road is finally open to both motorists and cyclists. However, it has come to light that not all drivers are following the rules. One driver was caught parking on a verge on Moody Lane, Grimsby, across the entire width of the new cycle lanes. The council is warning drivers if they are caught using the superhighway incorrectly, they risk receiving a Penalty Charge Notice. A spokesperson from North East Lincolnshire Council said: “North East Lincolnshire Council and its regeneration partner, Equans, are calling on motorists to adhere to the lining and signage on Moody Lane for the safety of all road users, pedestrians, and cyclists. “The council has received reports from users of the new Cycle Superhighway that vehicles have crossed over the double yellow lines and are parking on the verges or in some instances across the width of the new cycle lane.
“Double yellow lines indicate that a ‘No Waiting At Any Time’ restriction, supported by a Traffic Regulation Order, is in place.
“The restriction extends to the highway boundary which includes the verges and cycleway. Vehicles parking in these areas are at risk of receiving a Penalty Charge Notice.”
Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport, said: “We are committed to the sustainable travel agenda and will continue to provide the infrastructure needed in the area to support this transition. It is disappointing to hear reports from local cyclists that they are encountering vehicles abusing the new infrastructure that has been introduced to encourage a greater uptake of cycling and walking.
“Blatant disregard for the rules of the road puts everyone at risk and must stop immediately, the actions reported to us are all enforceable and we will be increasing enforcement patrols in these areas as a result. “We’re making great progress in progressing our sustainable travel transition, and we are committed to acting quickly to stamp out barriers preventing people from travelling cleaner and greener. Transport officials will be engaging with businesses in the area to understand any potential issues and will work with them to ensure sufficient parking provision is in place and support where they can.
“Officials will also be considering additional signage along the route to make the restrictions clear to motorists and to act as a further deterrent.”