Trowbridge residents fear illegal parking could kill someone

People living around Drynham Road report that drivers who are parking their cars illegally in the evenings have caused a whole host of near misses at the entrance to the road.

They say that Wiltshire Council was approached about their concerns around two years ago.

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Residents have tried to follow up with the local authority but have now asked local councillor, Antonio Piazza to take to the case up with Wiltshire on their behalf.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said that the problem has become so bad they have been forced to go door-to-door to find the culprits.

Photos of cars parked on the double-yellow lines taken by residents

“I’ve had to get out of my car and knock on doors before to find people who have actually parked across the entrance to our road which is off Drynham Road,” they told the LDRS.

“I’ve had many near misses trying to edge out when not being able to see cars coming up the road due to cars and vans parked on double yellow lines.

“Unfortunately, the 20mph isn’t always adhered to so it’s just a case of hoping for the best sometimes. Very dangerous and very frustrating.”

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They added that motorists are also parking on the double-yellow lines outside of the local shop and the park, which they say is very dangerous.

Cllr Antonio Piazza, who represents the area said: “I have had to report a few areas in Drynham over the past few months where cars have nearly caused accidents and blocked roads, potentially stopping life-saving emergency vehicles from getting through, by parking on double-yellow lines around the ward.

Drynham Road VIA GOOGLE MAPS

“Every time I ask Wiltshire Council to do extra patrols it puts a strain on the few resources that the department does have, requiring staff to be sent out that could be better used elsewhere.

“Please be considerate and do not park on double-yellow lines. It is dangerous and could cause an accident and even potentially kill someone. Please do not be a reason someone gets seriously hurt before Christmas. Anyone caught doing it will be fined and it could even affect your insurance.

“If anyone notices anyone parking on double-yellows, please do report it to me at antonio.piazza@wiltshire.gov.uk or parking@wiltshire.gov.uk.”

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Leader of the council, Richard Clewer said: “This area is covered by Civil Enforcement Officers as part of a regular patrol route. Any vehicles that are noted to be in contravention of the Traffic Regulation order will be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice.

"If residents make the parking services team aware of the worst times for illegal parking, it may be that officers can undertake some proactive enforcement in the area.

"Any vehicle that is found to be blocking private residential access and therefore causing an obstruction would be referred to the police as the enforcing authority.”