From today (Friday) vehicles parking in St Thomas’ Square and St James’ Square in Newport will be sanctioned by the Isle of Wight Council as new restrictions come into force.
Only vehicles with a special permit are now permitted to drive through St Thomas’ Square as a result of a 18-month experimental probation of driving order. Furthermore, a ‘no waiting at any time’ order is now in force surrounding St Thomas’ Church meaning not only can drivers be reprimanded for driving within the square, but for stopping or parking there too.
In recent months a number of vehicles have been parking in the pedestrianised area leading to locals venting their anger on social media. Until now the Council nor the Police have been able to do anything about it.
The new restrictions also apply to the East side of St James’ Square, where taxis and other vehicles have been seen to be parking in the evenings.
St Thomas’ Square won’t be completely free of traffic though… vehicles displaying a permit can use the area when in connection with building operations or demolition; the church, the market or an activity authorised by the Isle of Wight Council. Other vehicles permitted to use the square include highway maintenance, utility companies, cycles being pushed through by hand, emergency services and a security company visiting Lloyds Bank.
Waste collections vehicles can also use the square between 00:01 and 09:15 on any day of the week.
