Labour leader speaks out over private traffic wardens scheme

THE decision to enlist a team of private traffic wardens to pound the streets of Calderdale has been criticised by Labour leader Tim Swift.

The council has recruited Vinci Park to rigorously enforce parking rules and regulations and raise more money from fees and fines.

The four-year contract has an option to be extended for a further two years.

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Last year the parking services budget ended up 190,000 overspent and councillors set aside 400,000 to make the books balance this year.

Watford-based Vinci Park manages car parks throughout the country, including a multi-storey in Mayfair, London, one at the entrance to Gatwick Airport and new parking zones in Hull.

In some parts of Calderdale, its wardens will get around on bicycles and mopeds.

Company chief executive Mark Evans said: "Having worked with numerous high-profile local authorities, we understand the importance of integrating our services with the council's wider transport policy to help deliver a competitive offer and improved customer service.

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"Our team will very much be part of the Calderdale community and our award-winning training will ensure that they are able to provide local residents with the best possible service."

But the decision to privatise the services has been criticised by Coun Swift who described it as an admission of failure.

"When the council took over responsibility for parking enforcement, the then portfolio holder promised that this would be an in-house service. Now there is no choice but to outsource it because the council is not capable of running it effectively.

"It means another different agency with powers to act on our streets, at a time when we are supposed to be creating a single team of front-line staff working together, " said Coun Swift (Town).

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The council's economy and environment spokeswoman, Coun Amanda Byrne (Con, Sowerby Bridge) said: "Vinci Park is not just providing a valuable service by alleviating parking problems but it will become familiar face in our community. An extra pair of eyes can help to reduce the fear of crime."

Vinci Park is not on commission or bonus and there are no targets for tickets.