Drivers who park on keep-clear markings outside schools will be liable for a Parking ticket from next week.

From the start of the new school term on Monday, parking on the zig-zag markings will be punished at 50 schools across Brighton and Hove.

The city council is taking action to tackle inconsiderate and dangerous parking that regularly occurs outside schools.

Councillor Gill Mitchell, chairwoman of Brighton and Hove's environment committee, said: "Parking on the zig-zag lines makes it extremely difficult for children to cross the road safely outside their schools.

"Parents, children and teachers deserve a safe environment around their schools and this kind of parking is no longer acceptable."

The new scheme, implemented by the council's highways, parking and road safety teams, involves a no stopping order being placed on the markings so that if drivers stop or park when they see this sign they can be issued with a penalty charge notice.

Pupils across the city have taken part in a competition to design the front cover of a parents' information leaflet.

There will be a launch event on September 21 at Balfour Infant School, Brighton. The children who create the winning leaflet designs will receive their prizes from Deputy Mayor Pat Drake and Coun Mitchell.

The council will be working with its parking contractor NCP to ensure that the scheme will be regularly enforced.

For more information about the new rules, call the council's road safety team on 01273 292357 or email road.safety@brighton-hove.gov.uk