Gwent Police issued 87 parking tickets along High Street in Blackwood during a crackdown on illegal parking.
The £30 and £60 fines were issued in a week that marked the beginning of a “zero tolerance” approach by Gwent Police.
The force said the operation was put in place in response to the increasing congestion and complaints from retailers who say motorists are parking on double yellow lines and in loading bays.
Inspector Mark Smith, of the Blackwood Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “I am determined to work with the Blackwood town centre retailers so that irresponsible motorists who park illegally do not affect their trade.
“There is adequate parking provision provided by the local authority, and I would urge drivers to park in responsibly. My staff will continue to adopt a zero tolerance approach, issuing fixed penalty tickets where necessary.”
Parking problems have arisen with new short-stay bays along the High Street in Blackwood where motorists have been ignoring the time limits.
Cllr Tom Williams, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s cabinet member for highways, transportation and engineering, said: “While it is only an inconsiderate minority who are restricting access by parking illegally on the High Street, it is causing undue congestion nonetheless.
“I am pleased that action is being taken against this small minority of motorists, so that we can help ensure that Blackwood town centre is accessible for all. The 30 minute parking bays are ideal for customers who need shop for just a few items in Blackwood.
“This latest initiative by Gwent Police helps to reinforce the availability of parking for customers.”
I await a similar initiative in Caerffili. The lack of enforcement in the town has led to lack of parking spaces available to residents and those visiting a shop or bank. This results in cars orbiting the town looking for a place to park, increasing congestion, fuel comsumption and pollution.
The council has a part to play here, I have campaigned to have free short term parking in the town’s large carparks for more than 5 years. Perhaps the Labour administration will be more sympathetic to the needs of business and the residents than the defeated Plaid council, who expressed themselves satisfied with the existing arrangement.