Police say there's 'no excuse' for not following Spalding town centre traffic laws
Police say there is ‘no excuse’ for not following long-standing traffic rules in Spalding town centre - with a crackdown now under way.
Officers have already begun dishing out fines for drivers using Spalding Market Place after an increase in people flouting the daytime laws.
Vehicles are not allowed to drive through Market Place between 10am and 4pm Monday to Saturday under a traffic regulation order (TRO).
We understand that the county council will be looking at new signs to ‘reinforce the message’ to drivers in light of recent issues.
However, police vowed they will be reaching straight for fixed penalty notices (FPNs) for those found breaching the rules - with no warnings for those pleading ignorance and ‘days of action’ planned to target the problem.
South Holland Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Rick Mosley said: “The days of action have already started.
“We were out on Broad Street and Market Place on Monday, July and Tuesday, July 6 where a number of FPNs were issued to drivers.
“We will continue to target the area from time to time but will not announce this in advance.
“The offence is for failing to comply with traffic signs.
“The TRO has been in place since 1995 and as such there will be no warnings given. There is no excuse for failing to observe a traffic sign.
“Many local businesses and residents have become frustrated with drivers ignoring the TRO, which causes a hazard to pedestrians in the town centre.
“We have the complete support of South Holland District Council in policing this issue.”
Moves to target the issue have been welcomed by residents.
Commenting on our Facebook page, reader Tracey Harris said: “The town centre was full of cars today and people driving through. It needs a barrier putting up, it’s dangerous.”
Ken Booth added: “Why has it taken this long? Most find a car park and walk. Some just drive through and park anywhere in the Market Place unchallenged.”