Revamping Parking Rules: Highland Council Expands Decriminalised Parking Zones

In a move to enhance parking regulation, the Scottish Government has introduced the Road Traffic (Permitted Parking Area and Special Parking Area) (Highland Council) Designation Amendment Order 2025, designated as SSI 2025/148. This legislative tweak aims to extend the decriminalised parking enforcement areas within the Highland Council region, providing local authorities with greater control over parking issues, particularly during the bustling tourist season.

What’s Changing?

Since 2016, Highland Council has been managing parking offences through a decriminalised system that allows them to issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) directly. The 2025 amendment seeks to broaden the scope of this system by adding new sections of trunk roads to the existing decriminalised zones. Essentially, more roads will now be under the council's watchful eye, allowing for stricter enforcement and hopefully, better compliance.

Why This Matters

The primary objective of Decriminalised Parking Enforcement (DPE) is to ensure that parking controls are respected and adhered to, reducing congestion and illegal parking activities. Currently, 23 Scottish local authorities use DPE, which allows them to retain collected penalties, with the stipulation that any surplus is reinvested into transport-related projects such as public transport services or road improvements.

By expanding the DPE areas, Highland Council aims to tackle persistent parking problems, particularly in areas swamped by tourist traffic. This approach not only helps in maintaining order but also potentially generates revenue that can be channeled back into local infrastructure projects.

Impact and Consultation

The amendment is aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, ensuring no conflict with children’s rights. Furthermore, extensive consultations were conducted with neighboring councils, Police Scotland, and other relevant bodies, all of which supported the changes without necessitating adjustments to the original proposal.

Financial Considerations

Financially, the amendment is designed to be self-sustaining. The revenue from parking penalties is expected to cover the enforcement costs, negating any financial burden on the local government or businesses. Consequently, a Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment was deemed unnecessary.

Final Thoughts

This legislative update represents a strategic step towards improved traffic management and urban planning in Highland Council’s jurisdiction. By expanding the decriminalised parking zones, the council not only aims to mitigate parking issues but also hopes to enhance the overall transport infrastructure, benefitting both residents and visitors alike.