Broadgreen residents have been warned that illegal parking in alleyways will not be tolerated, with Wiltshire Police announcing that vehicles caught blocking these vital access routes will be towed without prior notice.
This comes as part of a coordinated initiative between the police and Swindon Borough Council’s parking enforcement officers, aimed at tackling long-standing parking issues in the area.
Since the start of the year, officers have been working under the multi-agency project known as Clear Hold Build, which focuses on improving safety and accessibility in Broadgreen’s residential areas. More than 119 warning notices have already been issued to drivers obstructing alleyways, with the council handing out over 120 Penalty Charge Notices for various parking offences.
PCSO Chivers of the Swindon Central South Neighbourhood Policing Team commented on the issue, stating, “We know from feedback from the Broadgreen community that illegal parking in alleyways is a significant problem. Just one vehicle parked in an alleyway can cause major disruption for residents and even prevent emergency services from getting through, which could put lives at risk.”
Chivers clarified that alleyways form part of the public highway, meaning they must be kept clear at all times. Although the majority of drivers appear to have heeded earlier warnings, the next phase of enforcement will involve towing vehicles caught obstructing the alleyways. “From next month, any vehicles found blocking these routes will be towed immediately,” Chivers added.
This tougher stance highlights the seriousness of the issue, and those who continue to park illegally in Broadgreen’s alleyways risk hefty fines or losing their vehicles altogether. The community is urged to cooperate with the authorities to ensure that emergency services and residents can safely access the area without unnecessary disruption.
