A CRACKDOWN on people illegally parking in cycle lanes is beginning next month.

Brighton and Hove City Council will be using CCTV to identify people who have parked in cycle lanes that have restrictions.

Currently, the lanes with restrictions on parking or loading include: Church Street, London Road, Lewes Road, Preston Road and West Street.

Legislation came into force in June 2020 allowing camera evidence as a means to issue penalty charge notices (PCNs) by post.

The council said: “It is important that the city’s cycle lanes are free for people cycling to use, but sometimes cyclists can find them obstructed by people who have parked inconsiderately.

“People who park in the lanes are given a short grace period to allow for pick-ups and drop-offs only.”

It will be sending warning letters from September to anyone caught on camera parking illegally in the roads mentioned.

From October, a PCN will be issued – the charge is £70 or £35 if paid within the first 14 days.

The council will then be looking at enforcing the new rules at more locations around the city.

It said: “As well as the new enforcement of some cycle lanes, we are also expanding our enforcement of illegal parking in city bus stops.

“At the moment, cameras currently enforce illegal parking at a number of central bus stops in Brighton and Hove.

“From September, this is increasing to bus stops citywide with PCNs being issued to vehicles seen parked in a bus stop.”

Motorists will also be given a short grace period to allow for pick-ups and drop-offs only.

Councillor Amy Heley, chairwoman of the environment, transport and sustainability committee, said: “I know from my experience of using our cycle lanes and public transport how frustrating it can be when the routes are blocked by illegally parked motor vehicles.

“This new legislation will help us to keep cycle lanes clear and safe for those that use them.

“It will also mean smoother passage for those that do use a car around the city.

“We are committed to providing safe routes for people to travel either by using active travel routes or by using public transport.”

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