Concern as drivers ignore parking ban
VILLAGERS have raised concerns about drivers ignoring parking restrictions at Macclesfield Forest.
The council banned parking on roads around the forest after residents complained about people causing traffic chaos and obstructions by parking when they visit the forest.
It was raised by a Macclesfield Forest working group, which includes Sutton Parish Council, Peak Park Rangers and other partners. But residents have said drivers are ignoring the restrictions and the parking continues to cause traffic problems.
They fear that emergency vehicles will not be able to get through to people who may be in trouble.
Resident Dominic Farley, who has contacted Cheshire East about the issue, said: “Signs as you leave Langley state you are entering a parking restriction zone and there are new parking bays marked on the roads, but visitors are ignoring the new parking restrictions.
“My parents are residents in Macc Forest and they have seen this problem get worse and worse almost to the point they won’t leave their house at the weekends due to the chaos.
“They have lived there 45 years and when we moved there, the forest wasn’t open to the public, except one footpath. If we wanted to go in as a resident we had a key into the forest. “As the years progress the secret got out and more and more people came, but now it’s got out of hand.
“I have spoken to the council and they will now be enforcing the new parking restrictions with wardens from November 30. The first week they will be there to advise visitors where to park, however tickets will be given after that especially at weekends and busy periods. This will be a great relief to residents especially with the forest being so busy with people buying Christmas trees soon.” Cheshire East banned parking on Standing Stone Road, Trentabank Road, Field Road, and sections of Clarke Lane, Red Lane, Forest Side and Oven Lane.
Councillor Les Gilbert, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member in charge of communities, said: “Following reports of noncompliance with the new parking restrictions, enforcement officers will be patrolling the area to ensure parking is correct, legal and safe for all road users.”