Call for more police to stop poor parking in Wem

Members of Wem Town Council say the issue is causing a headache for other motorists and for pedestrians who have to walk in the road.

Councillors have called for more police around the town to move the people who are causing the problems on.

The issue was discussed at a Wem Town Council meeting, which also heard from residents raising concerns about other traffic issues in the town such as speeding.

Councillor John Murray said: "People are parking on pavements around the town, particularly on High Street.

"We need police presence in the town. There is no-one walking the streets like they used to.

"We need a community bobby to move these vehicles on. It's just not happening."

Councillor Connie Granger said: "People are parking on pavements and on the road just to get a packet of sweets or bread rolls.

"It tends to be the younger generation who can easily walk.

"It is a huge problem but no-one is there to tell them."

Pauline Dee, Shropshire councillor for Wem, described the culprits as "bone idle".

John Campion, West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner, said: "While parking enforcement is primarily the responsibility of Shropshire Council, police safer neighbourhood teams do liaise with the council's civil enforcement officers when problems arise.

"I know that having a police presence in our communities is something that the public is concerned about and wants to see more of, which is why protecting neighbourhood policing will form a key element of my Safer West Mercia Plan when it is published later this year.

"In the meantime I am working with the chief constable and our partners to explore new ways to provide that visible reassurance to communities."

One resident at the meeting raised concerns about narrow pavements in the town, motorists not abiding by the 20mph speed limit, and HGVs using the town centre.

"The narrow pavements make it dangerous for pedestrians, especially mothers with prams etc. When it is refuse collection pedestrians are forced to go on the road," he said.

"The HGVs coming into the centre of Wem find it difficult to pass each other and they have to mount the pavements.

"The 20mph limit is not being enforced."

The mayor Councillor Rosemary Dodd said the issues will be discussed at the next meeting.

There are also plans to introduce double yellow lines in the town between the junction with Mill Street and the end of the former police station housing development. Councillors agreed to back Shropshire Council's suggestion to consult with residents on the introduction of the double yellow lines.