A former prison officer from Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, has invented a fence designed to deflate the tyres of vehicles parked illegally on his property's verge. Kevin Pringle, 64, patented the Smart Fence after growing frustrated with drivers using his grass verge as an extension of the road, causing damage to his land.
The Invention
The picket-style fence features hidden plastic spikes that are only exposed when a vehicle applies enough weight, breaking the plastic cover. Once activated, the spikes puncture the tyres, preventing the driver from leaving without repairing the damage. Pringle emphasised that the spikes are harmless to pedestrians and cyclists, as they require significant weight to trigger.
Inspiration and Development
Pringle explained that after tidying up his verge, he found drivers repeatedly parking on it. He spent years researching designs to ensure safety while effectively deterring offenders. He stated, 'The plastic fence covers the spikes and the only way to expose them is with enough weight on top of them to break the plastic. The driver will not be able to drive away, leaving the damage for the land owner to repair.'
Potential Applications and Cost
The Smart Fence costs £40 per half metre. Pringle believes it could be used by councils to prevent illegal encampments, as well as by estates, schools, and hotels. He has sought legal advice regarding liability for vehicle damage, arguing that if someone commits criminal damage by parking on his land, they are responsible for their own tools.
Legal Considerations
Insurance broker CIA Landlord noted that parking on a driveway without consent is trespassing, a civil rather than criminal offence. A Milton Keynes Council spokesman stated that under the law, items cannot be placed on public highway land without proper authorisation.
