Over 30 fines issued in a week as drivers park on clearway outside new Hollywood Bowl

VISITORS to Colchester's new entertainment complex have been left frustrated after more than 30 fines were dished out within its first week of opening for parking on the road outside the venue.

The city's new Hollywood Bowl has been open for just over a week, with residents flocking to the site to enjoy some games and fun.

However, a number of them have left the venue upset due to fines being dished out for parking in United Way just outside the new site.

The North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) said a total of 31 fines have already been handed out to motorists flouting the rules.

Issue - A number of motorists parked in United Way on Friday evening (Image: Newsquest)

Colchester resident Benjamin Pace, 45, was one of the people who received a parking fine on Friday evening in United Way.

He said: “We went to Slim Chickens and Hollywood Bowl.

"There were no markings on the road and where I stopped, there was no sign. There was nothing in my eyeline and I used one of the bigger gaps.

“When we got back it looked like the traffic warden had a field day.

“There were about 30 cars, all with tickets on their windscreens.”

Mr Pace has been fined £70, with a reduction offered of 50 per cent if the fine is paid within 28 days.

The Northern Gateway complex has also introduced a large new car park on the site with hundreds of spaces, near the new Wendy’s and Greggs restaurants.

Prohibited - The clearway sign on United Way, meaning no stopping whatsoever (Image: Newsquest)

Some residents have called for more “clear signage” leading to the car park, with signs pointing motorists to the area at the top of Via Urbis Romanae.

Others have argued there are no double-yellow lines on United Way to keep drivers away and current signs prohibiting parking are too small.

While United Way does not have double-yellow lines, it is marked through signs on lamp posts as a clearway, prohibiting parking and loading at any time.

Councillor - Councillor David King said clarity over signage is crucial

Mile End councillor and Council leader David King highlighted that the new Northern Gateway development has parking facilities available.

He said: “I would encourage people, whether it is residents or visitors, to make use of the car parking facilities that are available at the site.

“We also need clarity when it comes to the proper signage of the area for road users to know what can be done and what not.”

More than 30 fines handed out

THE North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) issued a warning to drivers to not park in United Way, with more than 30 fines already handed out.

It also encouraged drivers to “familiarise themselves with parking regulations in the area” to avoid being issued with a penalty notice.

A spokesman for NEPP said: “Drivers are reminded to be aware of clearway restrictions on United Way.

“Last week, 31 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued to vehicles parked along the road.

“A clearway prohibits stopping at any time, which has been the case for several years on United Way.

“Clearway signage is prominent throughout the road, with additional repeater signs for emphasis.

“For convenient parking options, drivers are encouraged to use the new multi-storey car park located behind the Hollywood Bowl.

“NEPP is committed to ensuring the safety and smooth flow of traffic on our roads.

“We encourage all drivers to familiarise themselves with parking regulations in the area to avoid receiving a PCN.”