Tackling parking problems outside local schools

POLICE have been making daily visits to schools in Castle Bromwich in response to problem parking during the school run.

Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) acted following concerns that parents were flouting restrictions when dropping off and collecting their children.

Among the concerns raised include vehicles blocking driveways, parking on yellow lines and on the zig-zags outside school gates.

During their visits, the PCSOs have handed out leaflets reminding parents of the law and the dangers of not abiding by restrictions. Details have also been noted of vehicles that are parking illegally or causing an obstruction.

In a bulletin on the police website, the local neighbourhood team said they had done a lot of work to tackle the issue after identifying it as a priority.

The crackdown comes a few months after comments by Castle Bromwich councillor Ted Richards about the chaos being caused outside schools around the borough. He said that it was among the most common complaints raised by local residents.

“I have to say from my own personal experience and what I hear from other councillors is that the way some parents behave is absolutely disgraceful,” he told fellow members.

“Some of them show no regard for those who live in these areas and no regard for the parking restrictions.”

Coun Richards, who is cabinet member for transport and highways, said that headteachers should take tougher action to help reduce the problem.