Residents hit out as parking row rears its head

Residents on Chapel Street in Wath said they were sick and tired of having their drives blocked by unthinking people ferrying children to and from the meetings of the 48th (Wath) Rotherham Scout Group.

A row broke out last year when householders were on the receiving end of inconsiderate parking on three evenings per week.

Scout leaders asked parents to park sensibly and the problem died down a little – but now it is as bad as ever.

Chapel Street resident Wayne Roddis said that road markings put down over drive entrances – called H markings – to keep them clear were ignored.

Mr Roddis said: “The parking situation continues to deteriorate. Myself and another neighbour have now contacted South Yorkshire Police and reported the incidents.

“We have had a site visit from the police where I have discussed our issues and shown them photographic pictures of vehicles parked across our driveways.

“South Yorkshire Police have now visited the scout hut and spoken with the scout leaders, explaining to them that no vehicle should be parking on or across driveways which are clearly marked with a H marking.

“We have been asked to report incidents of cars blocking our driveways as soon as possible, which should allow the police to attend and issue parking tickets or fines, and to keep taking photos of the offenders.

“Hopefully, the situation should now improve, but I won’t hold my breath.”

Group scout leader Sarahjane Ellor said that parents had been regularly asked not to park inappropriately and a walking scheme to get scouts to the headquarters had been rejected.

She said: “I am aware of these issues as at the time I was a Beaver leader. “Since taking over as group Scout leader, I have advised parents to park in the car park in Wath and walk up.

“At the time, I was in consultation with Jim Shaw of Living Streets, who does a lot of walking schemes.

“Parents were asked if they would like to do this but only some wanted to. 

“We have spoken to the neighbours and have advised them if there is a problem to come into the building and speak to me as I am there every session bu none have.

“We had a leader at one point standing outside to make sure that they were parking appropriately. However, this was impacting on the evening session.

“I can only apologise on behalf of our group to the residents on our street. “We are actively trying to relocate us back to Swinton but, there are a good deal of legal and monetary hurdles and it will take some time.”

A South Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said they were aware of residents’ concerns.

“We understand advice has been sought from a number of agencies including police and the local authority,” she said. 

“Primarily, parking is a matter for the council but we have also provided advice.

“We are also working with the local scout hut to ensure guidance is given to parents about parking in a considerate and safe manner when picking up or dropping off their children. 

“We would ask residents to call police if they experience this issue and we can issue obstruction tickets to offending vehicles if appropriate.”