Enforcement action on cars blocking narrow streets

A traffic warden joined emergency services for a day of action in East Leicester

Enforcement action has been taken during an operation to clamp down on inconsiderate drivers blocking narrow streets in east Leicester.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service personnel, Leicestershire Police officers and a Leicester City Council traffic warden took part in a joint operation to tackle problem parking on Wednesday.

Cars left on corners or over double yellow lines are hindering emergency services in the area, said the brigade.

Police patrols were also completed at Mayflower Primary, Catherine Infant and Junior, Mellor Community Primary, Abbey Mead Primary and Rushey Mead Academy schools.

Emergency responses can be delayed by narrow streets, warned the brigade

Fixed penalty notices and penalty charge notices were issued by police and the council, said officers, while an illegal tint on a vehicle was removed and a fly-tip was reported.

Objects on the road to reserve parking spaces were also removed and warning notices issued by the fire service.

People are being asked to think about where they park

The action, which included members of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue's Eastern station's Blue Watch, was part of the ongoing Operation Syphon, which aims to tackle road safety issues in the east of the city.

The road safety initiative has been carrying out enforcement since December, led by police officers based in East Leicester, as Sgt Chris Hall said residents had raised "concerns" about road safety.

Fines were issued to the worst offenders

A spokesperson for Eastern Fire Station said: "Narrow streets already make it challenging for our fire engines to manoeuvre, but when cars are parked on corners or double yellow lines, responding to emergencies becomes even harder.

"By getting out into the community, we're highlighting just how important it is to park considerately.

"Next time you park, ask yourself: Could a fire engine get through? Your choices could make all the difference in an emergency."