Tough Action To Be Taken Against Car Traders Acting Illegally

Traders who park cars for sale on the public roads of Tendring can expect to be hit with a £100 penalty.

Tendring District Council (TDC) has joined forces with Trading Standards officers in a bid to tackle the problem which is plaguing main roads, residential areas and seafronts.

The traders are also restricting legitimate parking spaces by their actions - and now TDC has decided to take action of its own.

It is an offence under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act to park multiple vehicles advertised for sale in any particular area.

Offenders will initially be issued with a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice and evidence will be gathered on persistent offenders with a view to prosecution.

A trader found guilty of an offence could face a £2,500 fine and have to pay the Council's costs.

Councillor Harry Shearing, Portfolio Holder for Technical and Procurement Services at TDC said he was determined to get to grips with the situation.

"The streets are not car showrooms they are for the legitimate use of residents and visitors to the district," he said.

"So often the parking of unsightly vehicles annoys residents and local legitimate businesses including genuine vehicle traders."

On May 15, 2008 there were 12 vehicles for sale on the Clacton/Holland seafront. Another trader is advertising up to 24 vehicles which are parked on the public road and various other problem areas have been identified across the district.

Cllr Shearing added that it spoils the amenity of the area, restricts available parking and can lead to road safety problems.

He said: "This initiative emphasises the value of partnership working, with Trading Standards officers, the Police and the DVLA working closely with TDC officers to combat this criminal activity".

Cllr Shearing also emphasised that the enforcement action is not intended to target private individuals selling their single vehicle.