Drivers flouting parking restrictions will be forced to think again when Brentwood Borough Council fully takes over their enforcement, according to Council leader David Gottesmann.

Cllr Gottesmann predicts that the decriminalisation of parking enforcement will have a big impact on how quickly and effectively restrictions are implemented.

Cllr Gottesmann said: "Decriminalisation will mean that we take over the running of the traffic warden service.

"Through this we will be able to amalgamate our existing residential and car parking services with the traffic warden service so that we are covering all forms of parking within the borough.

"This will give the council the power to enforce restrictions properly."

Brentwood Council is enthusiastically welcoming the new arrangements for enforcing parking restrictions approved by Essex County Council's Executive Board, last week.

The decision follows a countywide public consultation on the proposals to move enforcement powers from the police to the county council.

The county council now wants to devolve these powers down to district councils and is aiming to begin introducing the new system in April - although this depends on funding from the Government's Local Transport Plan.

Brentwood Council wants to take over responsibility as quickly as possible, but this will depend on the county council's agreement.

Cllr Gottesmann feels Brentwood will benefit under the new system as the council would be able to tackle parking problems and traffic management issues more effectively.

The council will still have to fully consult on any proposed restrictions, but measures will no longer be dependent on whether the police are able to enforce them.

Cllr Gottesmann said: "It will be an easier and quicker process with one service covering all forms of parking, but it will also mean parking issues are locally determined.

"The new system will also make it clear who is responsible for enforcing and implementing parking restrictions so the process will be more accountable."

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