PARKING bosses have warned visitors to the new Hollywood Bowl in Colchester not to park on the clearway outside the venue after a number of fines have already been dished out to motorists.

Many drivers have been parking in United Way when visiting the city's new entertainment venue.

While United Way does not have double-yellow lines, it is marked through signs on lamp posts as a clearway, prohibiting parking and loading at any time. 

The Northern Gateway complex has also introduced a large new car park on the site with hundreds of spaces, near the new Wendy’s and Greggs restaurants.

With more than 30 fines being dished out just within the first week, the North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) has warned drivers not to parking in the road,

Issue - A number of motorists parked in United Way on Friday eveningIssue - A number of motorists parked in United Way on Friday evening (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesman for NEPP said: “Drivers are reminded to be aware of clearway restrictions on United Way.

“Last week, 31 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued to vehicles parked along the road.

“A clearway prohibits stopping at any time, which has been the case for several years on United Way.

“Clearway signage is prominent throughout the road, with additional repeater signs for emphasis.

“For convenient parking options, drivers are encouraged to use the new multi-storey car park located behind the Hollywood Bowl.

“NEPP is committed to ensuring the safety and smooth flow of traffic on our roads.

“We encourage all drivers to familiarise themselves with parking regulations in the area to avoid receiving a PCN.”

A number of visitors who did receive fines have been left frustrated, with some calling for double yellow lines or larger signage.

Prohibited - The clearway sign on United Way, meaning no stopping whatsoeverProhibited - The clearway sign on United Way, meaning no stopping whatsoever (Image: Newsquest)

Colchester resident Benjamin Pace, 45, was one of the people who received a parking fine.

He said: “We went to Slim Chickens and Hollywood Bowl.

"There were no markings on the road and where I stopped, there was no sign. There was nothing in my eyeline and I used one of the bigger gaps. 

“When we got back it looked like the traffic warden had a field day. 

“There were about 30 cars, all with tickets on their windscreens.” 

Mr Pace has been fined £70, with a reduction offered of 50 per cent if the fine is paid within 28 days.