Moray Police Inspector assures Forres community illegal parking issues are being addressed

Police are confident that illegal parking in the centre of a Moray town is being dealt with appropriately.

Despite claims from many drivers and pedestrians in Forres that motorists “park where they want” on High Street and Tolbooth Street in particular, the region’s Elgin-based policing inspector has assured the public that this should not be the case.

Inspector Neil Morrison said: “Officers routinely patrol the town centre and engage with motorists who park illegally through education.

“Those parking illegally may find that enforcement might be by way of a fixed penalty ticket. This is balanced against other operational demands and incidents impacting our communities.”

Moray Council is responsible for enforcing parking regulations in off-street car parks, however, Police Scotland have handled on-street parking enforcement since the local authority stopped employing traffic wardens via budget cuts in 2013.

Moray Councillor Scott Lawrence (Forres, SNP) pointed out that Forres has numerous free parking options including sizable car parks at Orchard Road, Leys Road, Tulloch Park and Leask Road.

He said: “They offer convenient alternatives to on-street parking and using them helps keep High Street accessible and safe for everyone.”

He added: “While I may not witness every police patrol, I trust that officers are present and responsive to issues as they arise. Their balanced approach considers the broader demands on their time while still addressing parking violations that pose risks to pedestrians and other motorists.

“Let’s work together to maintain the charm and safety of our town centre, which is rightly envied by many other places.”

Forres Community Council chairman Steve Ferris was pleased to read in the latest Forres Community Safety Report that a motorist was charged with parking on zig-zags in Forres within the last two months.

He said: “Police are starting to enforce the rules on illegal parking on the crossings.

“These are there to increase visibility for, and of, pedestrians. This is particularly relevant for those who cannot cross quickly such as the old, infirm and parents with kids in tow.”

Insp Morrison finished: “I would encourage motorists to take personal responsibility ensuring that they park in accordance with parking restrictions and give consideration to the safety of others.”