On-street and off-street parking in Scarborough borough to be free, and NCP also helps key workers

The authority had previously said that it would not be enforcing on-street parking restrictions apart from people who park on double yellow lines and cause obstructions, and it has now revealed that next week payment machines in car parks will be “bagged”.

It means that the car parks will be free to key workers who still need to go into work during the lockdown.

Parking enforcement is being relaxed across North Yorkshire to support key workers and people who are working from home or self-isolating.

The approach will apply to both on-street parking, which is managed by North Yorkshire County Council, and off-street parking, which is managed by the borough council.

Instead, enforcement will focus on those drivers who park in an unsafe or obstructive way.

County Councillor Don Mackenzie, Executive Member for Access, said: “We’re taking this approach, with our partners, to help key workers, such as health and social care staff, to park as near as possible to their place of work to help them to provide the vital services we need now and to exempt them of any parking charges or time restrictions.

"The move will also help residents to park outside their homes while working from home or self-isolating.”

In line with Government guidance, key workers are asked to display clearly in their vehicles the appropriate evidence of their role, such as photocopies of their work pass with sensitive information removed, a letter of evidence from their employer or other existing health care permit.

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Cllr Mackenzie added: “Despite these relaxations, motorists must still adhere to parking restrictions such as double yellow lines and ensure they do not cause an obstruction or create a hazard.

"We must maintain access for emergency services and public transport at all times, as well as ensuring the overall safety of those still using the highway network.”

The NCP multi-storey car park at the Balmoral Centre in Scarborough is also free to key workers.

The company's CEO Jonathan Scott said: “We’re open where we can for all who need parking at this vital time. We hope this goes some way to helping all those who are still needing to work and care for people."

On its website the company says that at its car parks around the country the lifts will not be operational, and cash payments won't be accepted. The status of 'key worker' is as defined by the Government.

Coronavirus Dos and Don’ts:

Only leave home for essential shopping and for medical needs and one form of exercise a day;

You can go to and from work but only if absolutely necessary;

Public gatherings of more than two people are banned, excluding people you live with;

Don’t visit other people’s homes or socialise outside your home;

Keep your distance if you are out – always stay at least two metres or seven feet from other people;

Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with soap and hot water; this is still the most effective way to keep the disease at bay.