Motorists fined as emergency services struggle to get down streets due to 'inconsiderate parking'

Wisbech firefighters yesterday (April 11) took to the streets with PCSOs from Cambridgeshire Constabulary to highlight roads that a fire engine struggles to fit along owing to inconsiderate parking.

Nine fixed penalty notices were issued and the same number of verbal warnings were given to members of the public who were with their vehicles.

PCSO Lisa Mann said: “Parking inconsiderately not only causes unnecessary obstructions and frustrations to other road users but it can also make it difficult for emergency services to access certain areas in time of need.

“There are clear designated areas for parking within Wisbech and we encourage motorists to use them.”

Phil Pilbeam, watch commander at Wisbech Fire Station, said: “Inconsiderate parking, leading to problems with access for our fire engines, is an issue in a number of roads in Wisbech.

Our crews have historically found getting along roads in North Brink, Hill Street, Union Street and the High Street a tight squeeze owing to the large number of cars double parked, parked on both sides of the road and sometimes also parked on double yellow lines.

“This can make it extremely hard and sometimes impossible for emergency vehicles to get through, which could cause a delay in a fire engine getting to an emergency incident.

“It is imperative that when drivers park their cars they leave enough room for a fire engine to pass – just remember, we could be trying to get to your home or to rescue you or your family another time.”

A fire engine measures 2.6 metres wide and 8 metres long. Drivers are asked to make sure they parked their cars sensibly to allow a vehicle of this size to get through.