Coronavirus: Parking zones scrapped in Portsmouth but all other charges will apply to allow emergency vehicles to get around

PARKING zones in Portsmouth will be scrapped tomorrow amid the coronavirus pandemic - but all other restrictions will still apply to ensure emergency services and key workers are able to get around.
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As of tomorrow the park and ride service will also be postponed in a bid to reduce risk of Covid-19 spreading.

The city council announced temporary changes to parking and travel rules as part of a nationwide lockdown.

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Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, leader of Portsmouth City Council said: 'The work our traffic enforcement officers are doing is critical to making sure emergency services, deliveries and residents making essential journeys can be safe on the roads so we can look after the vulnerable and make sure we all have the essentials we need.

Parking zones in Portsmouth will be scrapped until further noticeParking zones in Portsmouth will be scrapped until further notice
Parking zones in Portsmouth will be scrapped until further notice

'We are asking everyone to take care on the roads and be considerate when parking vehicles. Please check the rules of the highway code if you are unsure to help keep our roads safe.'

As part of the changes the council will no longer be enforcing parking places in residential parking zones, other than disabled bays, from March 26.

This measure means essential visitors and carers will no longer require visitors permits, critical workers coming home late will be able to park across zone boundaries and people self-isolating will not have to be concerned about moving their vehicles.

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Residents that have residential permits will be compensated for the time the zone is not operating and details of this will be confirmed at a later date.

However, car parks, on-street pay and display parking and limited waiting parking places around shops that are open will continue to be enforced. It is thought this will ensure a turnover of space and reduce the potential of gatherings of more than two people.

Yellow line access and safety enforcement will also continue in Portsmouth to avoid potential obstructions that could slow down emergency vehicles.

Cllr Vernon-Jackson added: 'Please use the roads safely and only for essential journeys.

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'We all have a responsibility to avoid putting even more strain on the emergency services and taking care to ensure everyone's essential journeys can be made safely.'

Residents are advised to check the council website for daily updates on services during this time.

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