FINES are set to be dished out to drivers caught flouting parking restrictions outside schools as part of a new pilot project.

Temporary parking enforcement cameras will be set up outside Stanway Fiveways Primary School and Chase Lane Primary School in Dovercourt as part of the North Essex Parking Partnership scheme.

The Park Safe Schools scheme, part of the NEPP’S 3PR project, is one of the first of its kind in the country and aims to tackle dangerous parking outside places of education.

Cameras will monitor motorists’ behaviour at no stopping restrictions outside a school, such as zig-zags.

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If necessary penalty charge notices will be issued to those caught flouting restrictions, which will be clearly marked by signage.

The schools have been chosen due to parking problems in both areas and due to their proximity to Stanway Fiveways, Stanway School and Lexden Springs School will also be included in the pilot scheme.

At Chase Lane the position of the entrance causes problematic and dangerous parking during drop off and pick up times.

Safety - the new cameras. Picture: North Essex Parking Partnership

Safety - the new cameras. Picture: North Essex Parking Partnership

  • An example of one of the new cameras. Picture: North Essex Parking Partnership

Robert Mitchell, chairman of NEPP, said: “As well as addressing parking concerns and supporting our work with schools, this scheme should help reduce congestion and improve air quality in these busy locations while also supporting police and Essex County Council road safety campaigns.

“We will, of course, be monitoring this pilot very carefully before deciding whether, or not, these cameras might become permanent features. This trial period should also provide useful information in the validity of such schemes around other NEPP area schools.”

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Both pilots will run for at least one term, after which they will be reviewed.

If successful, the cameras could be used at other schools across the area.

Mike Lilley, Colchester Council’s communities, wellbeing and public safety boss, said: “This is a really exciting new way of using technology to improve road safety, parking issues and air quality, and supports our new positive parking strategy and commitment to tackling climate change.”

Headteacher of Chase Lane Primary School Julie O’Mara added: “The Park Safe Schools camera will really help to improve road safety and parking around our school.”

Visit parkingpartnership.org/north/parksafeschools.