Residents in Skegness have expressed worries about vehicles parking on grass verges and pavements along Scarborough Avenue, describing the conditions as perilous. Caroline Miller, a local childminder, has seen occurrences where vehicles have just missed pedestrians, including children she looks after. Her concerns are that without intervention, an accident could occur. The problem becomes worse in busy summer months when parking is in demand and expensive, resulting in drivers parking on pedestrian walkways. Resident, Darren Shephard, is alarmed about children’s safety, especially in summer when outdoor play is more frequent. Another inhabitant, Denise Walborne, has found it challenging to navigate the area with her grandchildren due to obstructive parking.
Verge parking is not just an issue solely in Skegness. Similar grievances have been aired in Lincoln about the destruction of verges. City Councillor Debbie Armiger referred to these drivers as ‘verge vandals’. Lincolnshire County Council, who oversees road management, acknowledged the situation and declared that any substantial safety hazards would be reported to the police. County council leader Sean Matthews affirmed that civil officers enforce current traffic rules, yet conceded that local councils lack the necessary power to remedy the issue effectively without a national ban. Highways manager Kyra Nettle encouraged residents to report worries to local councillors for evaluation, but did mention that measures such as installing bollards are unlikely unless the highway presents a safety risk.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
