After weeks without parking fines, motorists have been caught out in Harborough as traffic wardens return

A string of shocked drivers have got parking tickets in Market Harborough town centre as enforcement patrols are stepped up.

Motorists were fined in Adam and Eve Street as well as other nearby streets as traffic begins to increase.

Many were given £90 penalty charge notices – reduced to £45 if they pay within 14 days.

Leicestershire County Council said they are carrying out more patrols to crack down on illegal parking after cutting back during the coronavirus emergency.

The county council has now issued a joint statement with Harborough District Council to address the contentious issue.

The two councils say: “During the period of the Covid-19 pandemic the level of on-street parking enforcement has been scaled down to protect our workforce and also reflect the reduction in traffic levels.

“During this time we have continued to respond to traffic safety concerns.”

They add: “In line with the latest Government guidance, this week our parking enforcement team have increased patrolling to reflect the increase in traffic volume and ensure the flow of traffic and the safety of all highway users.

“There will be specific local arrangements for District and Borough off-street car parking in places across the seven districts.

“And appropriate notices will be displayed at car parks to advise the public accordingly.”

But motorists still do not have to pay to park in council car parks across Harborough.

Charges were suspended when the Covid-19 lockdown was imposed by the Government in late March.