PARENTS who cause car chaos outside schools could be landed with fines as parking bosses look to trial cameras to crackdown on the problem.

Schools across north Essex have reported problems at pick-up and drop-off times.

In some areas the issue is so bad it has descended into arguments, including swearing at school staff.

Now the North Essex Parking Partnership will look to spend up to £80,000 on a trial of four fixed cameras, which would be put up outside schools.

Existing CCTV vehicles are used to enforce no stopping restrictions but the partnership said scheduling its use across the region is “difficult” and contributes to air quality issues and congestion at peak times.

Under the new 12 month trial, if approved by the committee next week, the cameras would be put up on lampposts close to schools.

The report said: “[It allows] for a greater presence and removing the possibility of parents or guardians from parking whilst the car is not present.

“Cameras would be operational and monitored only during restricted times, from a back office location by a trained officer.”

Up to four schools would be selected and the cameras would be able to be moved to different locations, so potentially more schools can benefit.

Schools which are already signed up to the 3PR school parking initiative, which aims to reduce inconsiderate parking, will be first considered for the cameras.

Greg Hale has two children at Home Farm Primary School where concerns have been raised about parking problems.

He said: “I welcome the fact the parking partnership is taking the matter seriously and looking into solutions.

“I don’t know if cameras are the right solution and it would be interesting to know what evidence they have.

“I hope the partnership would consider all the options and consult with both parents and residents.”

The partnership is also looking at a pilot for parking bay sensor technology in Colchester and Clacton. The scheme, which would cost £150,000, would mirror one already adopted by Buckinghamshire Council.

It aims to allow enforcement officers to make sure limited-waiting bays are not abused.