Drop in to avoid being caught out with a fine

The new system of Decriminalised Parking Enforcement (DPE) begins locally on April 2 - with drivers who flout restrictions facing fines.

East Dunbartonshire Council is bringing people up to speed in advance to increase safety and help them avoid being penalised.

The drop-in meetings started last week, and continue with an event at Kirkintilloch Leisure Centre this Saturday (March 22) and Bishopbriggs Leisuredrome a week on Saturday (March 29). Both run from 10am-1pm.

Strathclyde Police withdrew traffic wardens locally in 2011, with police officers responsible for parking enforcement in the meantime.

Councillors agreed the authority should take on parking control duties and community wardens will now be responsible for issuing £60 fines (reduced to £30 if paid within a fortnight).

Councillor Alan Moir, convener of the council’s development and regeneration committee, said: “The drop-in events are designed to give local residents the chance to find out more about Decriminalised Parking Enforcement and how they can park safely and considerately - as well as avoiding fines.

“The decision to introduce DPE was agreed by councillors across the political spectrum, with support from the public during consultation last year.

“As part of the application process to the Scottish Government, the council was required to submit a business case which showed the scheme will become self-financing.

“This is not an exercise to generate money for the authority. Any fines levied will be used to sustain the DPE scheme - targeting inconsiderate parking and improving road safety for all.”

Information will also be available from community hubs, libraries, leisure centres and online at www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk