‘Blitz’ on pavement parkers

Police in Armadale have carried out a “blitz”on pavement parking following complaints from local residents, writes Stuart Sommerville.

Drivers in the town who were spoken to by community officers included those parked on pavements, double-parked and blocking access.

Speaking at this month’s Armadale Local Area Committee PC David Arnott urged the public the keep up email contact with the police to report incidents.

Local councillor Stuart Borrowman asked the police officer if there was much that could be done to stop “ungracious drivers”and whether the situation was worth more than the “occasional blitz”.

Constable David Arnott replied:“It is very important to keep in check because it can lead to more serious consequences. It is good that people have emailed into us,and I would ask that they continue to do so.”

Councillor Borrowman talked later of the problems caused by drivers who effectively abandon their vehicles - particularly those parking on pavements. You can imagine the problems mothers with buggies, or double buggies or those with wheelchairs face trying to get along the pavement.”

The most obvious flashpoint for parking problems has been school gates across the county and the police have been working with communities through the Smartpark. Police emphasise the need for the community’s co-operation.