Saturday, March 04, 2006

Credit where it is due ... a Parking Attendant that is a credit to the City

...But an exception rather than the rule.

Calling in to the office today to pick up a file I had barely got out of the car when a Parking Attendant appeared.
Beginning the 'five minute observation period' he courteously informed me that he had to begin the lgging procedure.
Not a problem, as I would be in and out within a minute so nthere wasn't even any need to clock up PCN number 51.
However, on my return his behaviour was impeccable. He pointed out that as I was about to drive away he had logged this in his pocket book.
An elderly lady then approached him and asked for directions to a nearby department store. The directions were tricky as the local area is undergoing regeneration and therefore some streets are blocked off, but the PA was patient, courteous and very polite.
If the City's parking regime was run under the 1984 Road Traffic Act with control in the hands of the Police and Traffic Wardens as it used to be rather than by 'for profit partnerships' then we could have a Citywide enforcement regime that would be justified and have the respect of motorists, businesses and residents alike.
The Draconian regimes enforced in local authority areas under Decriminalised Parking Enforcement areas are simply driving a big wedge between the public and authorities. It has been allowed to escalate out of control without any real checks and balances by the legislative authorities.

If, and when the balance is restored and the public is once again treated with respect with regard to parking enforcement, then I know just the gentleman to be in charge of personnel training...and an excellent ambassador for the City.

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