Controversial plans to fine drivers up to £100 for sloppy parking today received widespread backing.

Getting the measure of it - leading firefighter Nigel Norfolk is pleased with the plans Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

Under proposals in the new Traffic Management Bill, traffic wardens could take to the streets with tape measures and slap a ticket on any car parked more than 50 cm from the kerb.

The scheme would be introduced in problem parking areas where cars park on both sides of the road, such as Westcliff and Leigh.

Alan Abbot, chairman of the Residents' Association of Westborough, said: "Most of the 28 roads in Westborough are just about wide enough for vehicles to park on both sides of the road.

"If people park inconsiderately, it can cause chaos as roads can become impassable."

Jean Rowswell, deputy chairman of Leigh Town Council, said: "I have never heard anything so ridiculous in all my life. Haven't traffic wardens got anything better to do?"

Published Friday January 9, 2004

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