Yellow lines plan to combat Hartlepool parking problems

Hartlepool Borough Council says it is continually having to repair damage caused to the footpath because of the problem in Trentbrooke Avenue, in Rift House.

Councillors say vehicles parking on the pavement, particularly on bends, create blind spots and are fearful for pedestrians’ safety.

The council’s Neighbourhood Services Committee agreed to paint double yellow lines on the bends in the road and to reinstate the kerb level which has dropped to road level due to the parking.

A report said the council has been out to repair broken and loose paving slabs on numerous occasions.

It added that since repair work area was carried out only about a month ago, the paving has been damaged again.

Ward councillor Christopher Akers-Belcher told the meeting: “I’ve been contacted by residents for the last couple of years.

“A few months ago we repaired the area in question and residents have continued to park illegally on the pavement causing further damage.”

He added: “I’m worried about the safety of children in that area. It’s no longer safe.”

Coun Paul Beck said: “We really need to address this issue. The way these cars a parked is unacceptable.”

Sixteen objections were received to the lines. Objectors felt they would cause more parking problems, by reducing availability and take away useful overflow parking space.

They added it is not a problem for the majority of the time and the parking does not prevent pedestrians using the pavement.

As well as double yellow lines the council also considered installing bollards but said they can sometimes prevent access for bin lorries and other larger vehicles if residents park inappropriately.

Tony Hanson, Assistant Director (Environment and Neighbourhood Services) said: “We looked at four possible options however from the authority’s perspective we feel that the proposal to mark double yellow lines in Trentbrooke Avenue is the most sustainable option based upon the damage that’s continually reoccurring in that area.”

Chair of the committee Coun Marjorie James said parking on corners creates a blind bend inviting accidents.

She said: “As a bare minimum I think double yellow lines at this moment in time will be helpful at the two locations in Trentbrooke.”