The Thames Problem: Result #3

On Monday, at the request of all three of us, Westminster Council's Parking Board met to discuss the current parking issues in Maida Vale.

We're very grateful to the Cabinet Member for Parking for recognising that the current enforcement situation is not sustainable and needs changing. Following our lobbying, he has agreed to change two key elements of Westminster's parking policy, on a temporary basis, whilst the Thames works are underway.

From now on, unless there are compelling reasons/the suspension sign specifically says so, suspension signs will only be enforced during controlled hours. Combined with Westminster Parking's commitment to altering its suspension signs to clarify whether weekends are included or excluded, we hope this will help local residents to park more easily. Additionally, Parking Services will now only move vehicles in suspended bays if there is a direct request by Thames or its contractors.

We feel that these changes - which will be reviewed next month - are a start to reducing the problem in Maida Vale. However, no changes are perfect and we know that some residents may still have issues with parking going forward. As a result, we still think it very wise to exercise caution when parking and, if possible (much easier said that done, of course), avoid suspended areas when parking. And we would, of course, be delighted to hear from any resident given a parking ticket which they feel is unfair.

Alastair, Jan and Lee