Fines warning to drivers parking near beauty spot
Police spotted a large number of cars left on the road
POLICE have warned drivers they will face fines if they continue to park dangerously on the roads around Bradgate Park.
Officers have been on patrol in the area close to the popular green space and spotted a large number of cars left on the road by visitors not wanting to pay for parking.
They say some of them have been obstructing the highway.
A Charnwood Police spokesperson said: “Parking like this is not acceptable, obstructs the pavement, obstructs the road and is potentially very dangerous.”
So far just warnings are being given to badly parked drivers but fines may follow if the problem persists.
There have been large numbers of visitors to the park since it re-opened its car parks after the easing of the coronavirus lockdown.
Bradgate Park Trust bosses have updated a list of guidelines for visitors to the popular attraction.
The trust has also reiterated an appeal to visitors to take their litter home with them as the bins are being filled up every day and it costs £100 to empty them.
It has asked visitors not to park on surrounding roads and to use gloves when using the pay and display machines in the car parks.
The tea-room and visitor centre remain closed.
One toilet in each toilet block has been opened and is being operated on a onein, one-out basis.
“Please be aware, whilst we appreciate people have missed visiting Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood (and with weather improving) we ask people review how busy the sites are and consider coming another day if needed,” said a Trust spokesperson.
“Please be considerate to neighbours if car parks are full and do not park dangerously on surrounding roads.
“People are welcome to visit as part of their daily exercise, but we are asking that social distancing guidelines are followed at all times, staying two metres apart from others.
“People should also adhere to all guidance about gatherings.
“Respecting that many people are still working, if you are able to visit in the quieter times of weekdays, rather than weekends, please consider this.”
The trust spokesperson said: “Car parks will be opened daily by 8.30am. Pay and Display applies. Visitors are asked to wear gloves when using the machines and to follow the systems in place to ensure social distancing.
“The only machine that takes contactless card payment is at Newtown Linford, near the bridge to the Conservatory Tearoom. Unfortunately, despite extensive efforts since the start of the year, we have been unable to get the card machine as we advised at Hallgates commissioned.
“All other machines take coins. Machines will be sanitised throughout the day by staff, but we ask that you follow Government hygiene recommendations - using gloves/wipes for shared surfaces e.g ticket machines and regularly sanitising hands.
“Please follow the one-way systems on site to ensure social distancing. Car parking capacity is reduced and will be monitored by on-site rangers and wardens. Gates will close when the reduced availability is reached. We aim to close by dusk and signs advise of closing times on site.”