A driving instructor has expressed outrage after spotting a parking warden's van parked on double yellow lines near his home in Dover, but the local council insists the action was entirely permissible. John Allison, 48, captured the scene on Russell Street, where double yellow lines are in place to prevent obstruction for emergency vehicles.
Double Standards Alleged
Mr Allison questioned whether wardens issue themselves tickets, stating, "My gut instinct was that it was a double standard. I've seen other cars get tickets for exactly the same thing. You see so many other cars getting parking tickets for stopping there, even just for a few minutes. My feeling is that it's just a bit outrageous that they feel like they can park there." The photograph was taken just before 11am on Friday, May 29. His frustration is compounded by his inability to obtain a parking permit for bays on the opposite side of the street, forcing him to park at a nearby retail park or on residential streets further away.
Council's Explanation
Parking wardens, officially known as civil enforcement officers (CEOs), are employed by Dover District Council (DDC). A spokesperson explained, "Parking services were carrying out operational duties at this time, which included loading and unloading from the vehicle, which is permitted under the regulations." According to the RAC, parking on double yellows while loading or unloading may be allowed, provided the activity is continuous. However, this is not permitted if specific restrictions are indicated by signage or yellow kerb dashes.
In a similar incident two years ago in Whitstable, Kent, parking wardens faced criticism for leaving their vehicle on double yellow lines to issue a ticket to another motorist. That incident prompted an investigation by Canterbury City Council. One officer reportedly told a person filming them that they could stop there in an emergency, and when asked what the emergency was, replied, "To give that ticket."
