Sidmouth county councillor backs simplified parking for work vehicles scheme

SIMPLIFIED parking for work vehicles that need to be near buildings or properties, is being rolled out across Devon.

Eight district councils’ parking teams currently manage permissions for contractors to undertake works in varying ways, causing confusion among contractors and leading to widespread abuse of exemptions under the Traffic Regulation Order and disruption to traffic, business and residents.

From November 1, an online only service to apply for a works dispensation will be centrally available through Devon County Council and district council websites.

A single day dispensation will cost �10 and weekly �30. Existing exemptions for contractors on emergency callouts for gas, water or sewerage leaks, or emergency glazing repairs are unaffected.

Scaffolding and statutory works will not require dispensation notices.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: “We think this is a sensible approach to a problem which has caused growing concern amongst residents and businesses.

“This system will ensure they can go about their daily business causing minimal disruption on some of our busier streets.”