Currently almost 2,000 key workers who have registered their vehicles for the parking suspension scheme are receiving free parking.
In recognition of the current lockdown situation, parking charge notices (PCNs) have only been issued when the parking has significantly impacted on access for emergency vehicles or is dangerously parked.
However, from Monday (18 May), parking enforcement officers will be issuing warning notices to all vehicles that are parked illegally, other than those of key workers who have registered their details. Warning notices will be issued for a two-week period after which PCNs will be issued and then enforced.
This return to regular enforcement is in line with London Councils guidance and also with neighbouring boroughs, which are taking similar action.
Check your permit
Residents are advised to ensure they have up-to-date permits for controlled parking zones (CPZs) in the borough and are reminded that payment must be made when parking in pay and display bays.
Expired disabled badges and health emergency badges will be considered valid until the end of September 2020 to allow enough time to process renewals.
Free parking for key essential workers
Free parking will remain in place for key essential workers providing vital services until further guidance is received from London Councils or the government.
Councillor Mik Sabiers, the council’s cabinet member for environment and highways, said: “With the recent change in government advice and the easing of lockdown measures, we need to ensure that parking is managed across the borough to allow for emergency vehicle access. In preparation for a return to work we want to discourage non-essential travel and drivers from out of the borough coming and parking in our streets.
“We also want to encourage everyone to continue with greener and more sustainable transport options, such as walking and cycling. It would be a shame for the much improved air quality we’ve all noticed over lockdown to disappear as soon as people jump into their cars.
“We recognise that for many lockdown still imposes a lot of restrictions, so advise those who rely on a car for getting around or require further information, to contact parking services on 020 8825 6677 and select option 5 and then option 3, during office hours 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday.”
Car parks that service parks and open spaces were also reopened this weekend (16/17 May) although Gurnell Leisure Centre car park remains closed to allow the temporary mobile testing unit to use that site.
Go online to renew a permit or apply for a new permit.
