Yahoo News Thoughtless parking blocking church access for disabled and elderly
Inconsiderate motorists have parked across keep clear signs, blocking entry for funerals and a minibus serving the disabled.
Watford Borough Council shared a series of pictures yesterday (July 2) of the cars around St Mary's Church car park, in Church Street, blocking access by leaving gaps too narrow for vehicles to pull in.
The church has highlighted that blocking access to its premises impacts funerals, church staff, volunteers, community organisations that use the premises, and its minibus for elderly and disabled members.
Inconsiderate parking outside St Marys Church. (Image: Contribution)
“Please note, the forecourt at St Mary's Church is intended for church business only,” a council spokesperson said.
“There have been some issues with parking on Church Street. Some cars are blocking the ‘keep clear’ signs, making it difficult for church staff and emergency vehicles to access the area.
“Please help us keep this area clear for everyone’s safety and convenience.
Cars parked on the 'keep clear' markings at St Mary's Church. (Image: Watford Borough Council)
“We're working on improvements to help remind everyone of this.”
The church has entrances facing out onto both High Street and Church Street.
A further announcement on measures to prevent the parking is expected next week but it is understood that changes will include new signage in Church Street.
St Mary's Church car park. (Image: Watford Borough Council)
Church warden Marcus Jones said: “The first thing I’d like to say is St Mary’s Church is grateful to the council for the messaging.
“The church is open to everyone but for the church to be able to serve the community it is vital that the car park is kept free for people to use.
“If the ‘keep clear’ is blocked it's very difficult to get in and out. If shoppers or other people coming to Watford park there it means space is not free because there are a small number of spaces.”
Inconsiderate parking outside St Marys Church. (Image: Contribution)
As well as cars blocking the keep clear markings, he added, High Street shoppers have also been parking inside the church car park itself, which has a sign confirming it is private property and reserved for callers on church business.
This has led to legitimately parked church vehicles being "blocked in".
