By Vivienne Russell | 4 October 2013
Transport ministers have urged councils in England to stop using painted yellow lines to restrict parking and instead use signs to tell motorists where they can and cannot leave their cars.
The Department for Transport said double and single yellow lines were an ‘eyesore’ and spoiled historic town centres and conservation areas.
‘No one wants to see unsightly yellow lines blotting our towns and villages when there is an alternative,’ said transport minister Norman Baker in a letter to councils.
‘I encourage local authorities to think about the use of restricted parking zones. They can be used to improve the visual impact of the street while providing clear information to motorists.’
Cheshire East, Cornwall, Slough, Warwickshire, Suffolk and Nottingham are among the local authorities that have already adopted restricted parking zones.
Guidance for local authorities on the design and implementation of restricted parking zones is available through the Traffic Signs Manual.
