Drivers urged to keep off the verge

A CASTLE Bromwich councillor has urged drivers not to park on grass verges, following a torrent of complaints from residents.
Coun Ted Richards, who is Solihull Council's cabinet member for transport and highways, said members were inundated with calls from members of the public who were fed up with grass being churned up outside their homes.
Now he has called on drivers to keep off the verge, revealing that it costs the council thousands of pounds to repair the damage every year.
Coun Richards said: "This is a persistent problem in my ward of Castle Bromwich and represents a really irresponsible attitude from drivers.
"At a time when we are attempting to de-clutter our streets, some of the traditional methods we’ve used to deter verge parking such as timber posts or signage are no longer appropriate.
"I am asking for residents to help take ownership of the problem and inform their visitors and guests to keep their vehicles away from our grass verges."
In some areas, the problem has got so bad that homeowners are using house bricks, rocks and logs to try and prevent drivers parking on the grass, although the council has warned against this - arguing that it creates its own safety issues.
In certain circumstances, parking on grass verges is an offence. For instance, if there are yellow lines on the road or if the vehicle is parked on a bend, narrow street or at a junction and is causing a hazard to other motorists.
The council also has powers to fine drivers who cause persistent damage.