DRIVERS in North Lanarkshire town centres could be slapped with council fines as part of a new decriminalised parking enforcement scheme.

They will employ parking attendants to enforce on-street parking restrictions with penalty charge notices issued to vehicles parked in contravention of the rules.

Parking, waiting and loading rules are set out by single and double yellow lines on the road, markings on kerbs and street signs.

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As of September 19, fixed penalty charge notices of £60, with a reduction to £30 if paid within 14 days, can be dished out to drivers.

Councillor Michael McPake, Convener of the Infrastructure Committee, said: “Decriminalised Parking Enforcement simply means that the council will now enforce parking rules in our town centres, instead of Police Scotland.

“The scheme has clear benefits for everyone who uses town centres. It encourages drivers to park safely and correctly, increases turnover of parking spaces for shoppers, makes it easier for delivery vehicles to access businesses, and improves road safety.

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“The rules haven’t changed so if you park responsibly, you won’t see any difference. However the scheme allows us to take action against inconsiderate drivers who break the rules.

“We believe the scheme will open up more short-term spaces for shoppers who want to park for a short time in a town centre, which in turn will encourage more people into our town centres and help local businesses.”