Parents who stop on zig-zag markings face £100 fines
Parents who put children’s lives in danger by parking on zig-zag markings outside schools gates face being fined up to £100 in the next school year.
Hounslow Council will be enforcing the “keep clear” markings outside schools from 1st September following complaints from parents and schools about the risks to children.
Because of their size, children cannot see if the road is clear from behind parked cars, and drivers cannot see small children hidden by parked cars. When children go to and from school, there is usually a lot of traffic.
Cllr Barbara Reid, executive member for environment, said, "Mums and dads often claim they park right outside school gates as it’s safer. But parents themselves pose the biggest threat by blocking the view of other motorists who cannot see children crossing.
"Parents who indiscriminately jeopardise children’s safety by stopping outside school entrances should be prepared for being fined.
"We have been working hard to make sure parents understand this issue so we hope we only have to issue fines as a last resort.
“The markings are there for a reason, and we would rather take this action than see a child injured because markings were ignored.”
Anyone parking in the marked area during the restricted times will be subject to a £100 fine, which is reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
August 29, 2008