The
car parking charges in Oxford are about to rise again. It is time
to get rational about parking nationwide. There is no way public
transport can handle all requirements and car drivers should be treated
reasonably. At the moment, the most unreasonable aspect of both
car-park and meter regulations is the imposition of the maximum fine
for the smallest overstay. A £60 fine for a one minute mistake
is, quite simply, criminal extortion. Circumstances can conspire
against a driver returning to their vehicle. The fine for being late
should hurt, but not that much that quickly. There should be a £5
fine for up to 5 minutes, if paid on the same day. A £10 pound
fine for 5-10 minutes if paid on the same day. All other overstays can
take the full fine as currently set. The councils would not lose,
probably gain by getting more quick payers, while motorists would be
content they were being fairly treated. It's not rocket science.
JUNE 21st 2006
Go for it Gwyneth! About bloody time.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/5105418.stm