Arbroath Sports Centre Tackles Abusive Parking in Disabled Bays

Drivers near Arbroath Sports Centre are getting warnings. People park poorly near the sports center. It’s been a rising problem since the Covid-19 pandemic. Some park in disabled bays without permits. Others block entrances or park on the grass. Officials say, “Your laziness is not a disability.”

A polite request aims to fix this ongoing issue. Wardens will patrol and ticket offenders. Councillor Lois Speed often hears about parking issues. She says things worsened after the pandemic ended.

The disabled bays are right outside the center. Parking hasn’t changed, but driver behavior is now worse. People park in disabled spots illegally. Cars sit on the grass, blocking resident access. This is unfair, she says.

Many regular spaces exist, but only seven are for disabled permits. Speed spoke to drivers who parked poorly. Some apologized or felt ashamed when they realized. Others were rude, residents confirmed. She wants them to see the impact of their actions.

Just park responsibly in available spaces, she pleads. Disabled people leave upset because of unavailable bays. This causes stress and anxiety for them. It stops them from doing sports, which leads to isolation.

Colin Knight of Angus Alive is aware of parking issues. He asks customers to park responsibly in the provided lot. Improper parking affects disabled patrons and neighbors. It could even hinder emergency services. Officials want drivers to cooperate during an engagement period. After that, wardens will issue tickets.

Fines are £100, reduced to £50 if paid quickly. Fines increase to £150 if unpaid after 56 days.