A major operation has been launched to tackle persistent parking problems and anti-social behaviour near a popular UK airport under tougher new rules.
Bristol Airport has teamed up with North Somerset Council and Avon and Somerset Police to crack down on rogue parking firms and problem parking in nearby villages.
The three bodies have agreed to a wide-ranging Parking Action Plan aimed at stopping unlicensed off-site parking companies, tackling questionable “meet and greet” services and reducing street parking that has angered local residents.
Officials warned that parking issues have also led to a rise in anti-social behaviour surrounding communities, including cars being left in residential roads and country lanes.
Over the past year, representatives from the airport, the council, the police and local parish councils have met regularly to share intelligence and identify the worst problem areas.
In January, a special “parking surgery” was held to agree upon 40 separate measures, with a clear deadline and a named organisation responsible for delivering them.
One of the most significant pledges is a proposal from the airport to double its financial support for the council’s planning enforcement team.
There will also be more joint enforcement days involving council officers and police, specifically targeting rogue “meet and greet” operators.
Bristol Airport warned of spikes in anti-social behaviour near local roads due to poor parking
|
GETTYNew road signs have already been installed in the lane leading from the airport roundabout, making it clear that stopping or waiting is not allowed. Meanwhile, the Bridle Cottage layby on the A38 near the Fox and Goose pub now has a strict two-hour maximum stay.
Taxi firms have also been contacted and reminded that the airport offers a free waiting zone for up to one hour, with the hope that it stops drivers from parking in residential streets while waiting for passengers.
The airport said it has also expanded the capacity in this free waiting area and improved the signs directing drivers to it.
Rob Henley, Transport Planning Manager at Bristol Airport, said: “It’s been vital that we work together with North Somerset Council and Avon and Somerset Police, as the only way to tackle parking issues is through a joined-up approach.
Taxi firms have also been reminded to only park in the free waiting zone for up to one hour
|
PA“We ask all customers who drive and taxi drivers to please be more considerate to the local community and not park outside homes. We recommend using our free waiting area rather than dropping off outside of people’s houses and in laybys.”
Travellers have also been encouraged to consider public transport, including the A1 bus to Bristol, the A3 to Weston-super-Mare and the A4 to Bath.
Councillor Annemieke Waite, Cabinet Member for Planning and Environment at North Somerset Council, said: “If you choose to park outside of Bristol Airport, it is your responsibility to check the company is reputable.
“Look for a parking accreditation. Check terms and conditions and reviews, and avoid companies with a mobile-only number. Consider using a credit card to book. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.”
Drivers have been warned of rogue parking operators near Bristol Airport | PAInspector Christian Gresswell, of Avon and Somerset Police at the airport, said officers understood residents’ frustrations, with action now being taken.
The British Parking Association has also offered support and expertise through the airport’s Transport Forum.
Anne Bevis, Technical Compliance Manager at the association, said: “The Day of Action targeting ‘rogue’ operators is already delivering tangible results, and we look forward to playing an integral role and assisting with further improvements to benefit everyone in the future.”
