Wolverhampton Launches Crackdown on Dangerous School-Run Parking

Drivers Warned as Wolverhampton Schools Face Parking Enforcement

Dangerous School-Run Parking Crackdown Under Way in Wolverhampton Drivers parking illegally or dangerously outside schools in Wolverhampton are facing a new enforcement crackdown as children return for the new school term. The City of Wolverhampton Council says mobile enforcement vehicles and foot patrol officers are being used around schools during the busy drop-off and pick-up periods. The enforcement operation is targeting motorists who ignore traffic restrictions and create potential dangers for children and other people using the roads around schools. The council’s enforcement vehicles, which were first launched last year, record footage of potential parking violations. The footage is then reviewed by an independent officer before a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) can be issued. One parent, Rosemary Ward, told the BBC she had experienced difficulties finding somewhere safe to park while taking her three children to Springdale Primary School. She said new bollards had reduced the amount of available street parking, meaning parents had to leave their vehicles further away and walk to the school. Ward also raised concerns about her eldest son, who she said has learning difficulties and does not understand the dangers of traffic. She said there was no school crossing patrol to assist children and families. She questioned whether enforcement alone would address the parking difficulties and suggested that money raised from fines could instead contribute towards creating a dedicated pick-up and drop-off area. The council, however, said drivers should be considerate when dropping off and collecting children and avoid creating dangers for people crossing near schools. Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal said there could be no compromise when it comes to children's safety, adding that enforcement vehicles and foot patrols were being used to tackle motorists who continue to ignore waiting restrictions. For parents, the crackdown is another reminder that parking immediately outside a school does not necessarily mean it is permitted. Yellow lines, school keep-clear markings and other restrictions can apply during the school run. Drivers who regularly collect children from school should therefore check the restrictions in place before stopping, particularly where road markings or signs have changed. Finding a suitable place to park before arriving can also help avoid the pressure of trying to stop as close as possible to the school entrance. For families dealing with busy school-run areas, planning ahead can make parking easier while reducing the risk of receiving a PCN. EveryonesParking can help drivers find and plan parking before they arrive at busy destinations, making it easier to avoid last-minute searches for a space. For school runs, events and other busy journeys, checking parking options in advance can save time and help drivers park more responsibly