A surge in the number of drivers trying to get parking fines overturned is jamming council offices.
Colchester Council is struggling to clear a backlog of appeals after new parking rules were brought in last year, the Evening Gazette can reveal.
Chiefs ordered a "softly softly" approach to motorists who challenge parking fines while people get used to the new system.
They are letting drivers appeal without the risk of doubling their fine for not paying up within 14 days.
Normally anyone losing an appeal faces a £60 fine because they don't pay inside the two-week limit.
Seven thousand tickets have been issued.
Now it has emerged that 300 appeals have still to be dealt with.
Parking chief John Lemon said: "We are advising people their cases are on hold.
"If their challenge is rejected they are given the chance to pay the discounted rate of £30 for another 14 days."
The council took control of parking fines last October.
Published Wednesday, April 9, 2003
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