Slough Council Considers Vehicle Seizure for Persistent Parking Violators

Individuals who repeatedly commit parking offenses could have their vehicles seized under a new policy currently under consideration by a council. Slough Borough Council is scheduled to discuss the “Vehicle Removal Parking Contraventions and Persistent Evaders’ policy” during a cabinet meeting on Monday. The authority stated that removing illegally parked vehicles would enhance traffic flow, improve access for emergency and waste services, and assist residents with sustainable travel. Should the policy receive approval, the council would commence the process of appointing a company for vehicle removal and disposal, with an additional report to be presented to the cabinet in April. This policy would specifically target vehicles that have accumulated three or more recorded contraventions, provided that the associated penalty charge notice (PCN) was either not paid or not appealed within the statutory timeframe, or if an appeal was denied and the penalty charges remain outstanding. The scope of the policy would extend to vehicles that create a hazard or obstruction on the highway, those impeding planned maintenance activities, abandoned vehicles, and non-motorised vehicles like trailers and caravans. Councillor Paul Kelly, the lead member for highways, housing, and transport, stated that repeat offenders would face vehicle seizure and would be required to pay a fee for its release. He added that failure to do so could result in the vehicle being “disposed of.” He further clarified that the policy’s objective was not to generate revenue, but rather to ensure “compliance and recovery of debt.” “Inconsiderate, dangerous and illegal parking really does impact on the community and can prevent important works from getting done,” he remarked. “We are hopeful, if approved, this new policy will encourage residents, and those who parks on Slough’s streets, to take responsibility and be considerate to others,” he concluded. You can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.