Drivers risk harsher fines for ‘worst parking ever seen’ in popular tourist area as police slam motorists

The region is very popular with tourists, especially those looking for camping spots. However, locals have been left furious over the number of cars clogging up the walkways.

In response, Copeland Police issued penalties to drivers who inappropriately parked along the lakeside, before taking to social media to slam motorists.

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The Police shared: "It was some of the worst parking the officers have seen in the area and it's a good job a fire engine or other large emergency vehicle didn't need to get down to Wasdale Head.

"By all means come and enjoy the valley, but please consider others when you park your car. This road is a clearway and there should be absolutely no parking on it, this includes in passing places and on both sides of the road!"

Drivers can be fined £70 for the higher band of parking infringement but this can be discounted to £35 if paid within 14 days.

This penalty can be issued for parking in a restricted area in a car park, or in a permit bay without clearly displaying a valid permit, in a car park or area not designated for that class of vehicle, on yellow lines or in loading areas without loading.

Despite the fines handed out to drivers, local residents are still concerned and have warned that the penalties are not enough to stop the cars.

Writing on Facebook, one person wrote: "Fines are too low, they need to increase to reflect the increased cost of living. A £70 fine is nothing for many people, a minimum £250 fine will make them think again.

"Then for every additional ticket in the next three years make it double the previous one and start adding points to the licences as well."

Another resident shared: “Crazy parking is one of the things that makes me so angry about people visiting these beautiful places, some people seem to have no idea about what is OK.”

A third concerned local suggested that there needs to be a "more lasting deterrent" such as the points on licence to help stop the chaos.

Residents were also concerned about the long-term impact on wildlife and plants with inconsiderate parking issues causing further issues.

The person stated: “These are visually obtrusive and change the whole appearance of our valleys - if drivers acted responsibly, they wouldn't be necessary. Much higher penalties or towing of vehicles would be a better deterrent.

“My own view is that [a shuttle bus] needs to run daily in holiday periods at least on weekends the rest of the year at minimum. Then be highlighted by official Park and Ride road signs.”

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A final person called on the police to also visit and respond to people fly camping, littering and having fires in the area.

The person said: "BBQs & fire pits on the Sites of Special Scientific Interest? It’s been a constant issue each weekend through the summer months? Is there is no deterrent to this?"