Tough new laws

From July 1, the new law to reduce congestion and improve road safety will mean drivers will get a fine based on the seriousness of the parking offence.

Under the scheme, motorists could face fines of up to £100 for parking at bus stops, pedestrian crossings, safety zones outside schools or where loading is prohibited, compared to a lower fine of £60 for overstaying at a parking meter or failing to display a valid ticket.

The government-led initiative will also mean penalties for moving traffic contraventions such as driving in a bus lane, entering a yellow box junction and ignoring no entry signs will increase to £120.

Cllr Keith Burrows, cabinet member for planning and transportation at Hillingdon Council, said: "We understand that no one likes to receive a parking ticket and want to ensure that fewer people get these as possible. However, the new laws will enable more safe and efficient journeys in Hillingdon."

Chairman of London Councils' Transport and Environment Committee, Cllr Daniel Moylan, said: "Ensuring the right balance is struck between being firm and being fair has always been a challenge, but I believe this new two-tier scheme helps us to meet both of these objectives."

The introduction of the scheme follows an extensive consultation with the public, motoring organisations and other interested parties carried out last year by London Councils and Transport for London (TfL) who found acts of illegal parking cause the most disruption, frustration and danger to other road users. With 50million acts of illegal parking taking place in London each year, the London-wide scheme will significantly cut the number of illegal parking acts.

For more information on parking-related services in Hillingdon visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/parking