Forklift driver moves parked SUV blocking delivery in Birmingham
Forklift moves parked car blocking lorry in Birmingham

A delivery lorry in Birmingham was left unable to access a business yard after a car was parked directly in its path, leading to an unconventional solution caught on camera.

Forklift Takes Direct Action

The incident occurred outside InterFreight Worldwide, a shipping and packing company in Birmingham. A grey Volkswagen Tiguan was left parked in front of black gates clearly marked with 'No Parking' signs. This obstruction completely prevented a large delivery lorry from turning into the yard to make its drop-off.

Footage of the event shows a forklift operator from the business taking decisive action. Using the forklift's prongs, he carefully lifted the SUV from the pavement, moved it a short distance down the road, and safely set it down, clearing the entrance.

Witness Account and Owner's Absence

The moment was recorded by Ahmed Hussain, 28, who was waiting for a customer nearby. Mr Hussain, who works in vehicle detailing for Haven Autocare, stated he believed the forklift was operated by the business expecting the delivery.

"The car was parked there when I got there, so I would say it was there from early morning," he said. "The truck was delivering food or clothing items to the local shops." Mr Hussain confirmed the owner of the Volkswagen was not present for a considerable time and only returned later. He noted that while the vehicle wasn't blocking his own business, it was undeniably parked in a no-parking area.

Potential Parking Penalties in Birmingham

Parking in such a manner on a public road in Birmingham contravenes local regulations and can result in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) from Birmingham City Council. The fines vary in severity:

  • Lower-level fines start at £50, which is reduced to £25 if paid within 14 days.
  • Higher-level fines start at £70, reduced to £35 if paid within the two-week period.

For more serious parking violations, such as blocking a pavement or misusing a bus lane, the penalty can be as high as £100. It remains unclear from the footage whether the SUV was parked on double yellow lines or within a marked loading bay, but the prominent 'No Parking' signage suggests a clear contravention.

The swift, if unorthodox, action by the forklift driver resolved the immediate logistical issue, allowing the delivery to proceed. However, it highlights the ongoing problems and frustrations caused by illegal parking, especially for businesses reliant on clear access for goods vehicles.