Possible kerb-space management solutions
Given that every road is different, there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution to parking related problems experienced most often by residents. However, the over-riding objective of any parking scheme should be to alleviate parking pressures whilst facilitating the safety and movement of all highway users. There are a number of options that may be adopted in order to reduce the impact of parking problems:
- Limited waiting restriction (single yellow line): The parking of vehicles is restricted between certain times of day. In many cases a restriction of a single hour will prevent the parking of vehicles all day during the day, but longer or multiple time restrictions are required if parking related problems are caused by shoppers or school run parents. A ‘limited waiting’ restriction would affect all highway users, including local residents.
- No waiting at any time (double yellow lines): All drivers are prevented from parking their vehicles at any time day or night. This intervention is often used for safety reasons protecting corners and kerb-lines at junctions. This improves the visibility for all highway users negotiating such junctions, which reduces the risk of potential conflicts between them. A ‘no waiting’ restriction would affect all highway users, including local residents.
- Controlled parking zone (CPZ): This solution requires the setting of an area in which all kerb-space is controlled by either yellow lines or designated parking bays, including resident bays. CPZs are often referred to as resident parking zones because they are used for situations where on-street parking is severely congested and the kerb-space is managed appropriately predominantly for the benefit of residents. A charge for permits is applied to cover the cost of administration and enforcement, but no profit is made from the operation of such schemes.
- Restricted zone (RZ): This is similar in principle to a CPZ except that yellow lines are not required. Parking is permitted only in designated bays within a defined zone. Secretary of State approval is required for this solution and it is typically used where line markings would blight the environment – such as conservation areas.
- No restrictions: This is the current situation for most borough residents. Drivers are able to park wherever they wish, often disregarding the requirements of other highway users.
