THE introduction of fines for drivers who park on pavements could be a problem in Tranent, according to the town’s community council.

At the October meeting of Tranent and Elphinstone Community Council, Scottish Government legislation which would see a fine of £50 imposed on drivers who park on pavements was discussed.

The newly enforced rules, which come into effect on December 12, would see a £50 fine issued to be paid within 14 days, rising to £100 if paid between 14 and 28 days and £150 if not paid 14 days after a reminder letter is sent out on the 28th unpaid day.

The ban, part of the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, sets out to tackle “inconsiderate and obstructive” parking according to the Scottish Government and will be imposed by local councils.

It is currently legal to park on a pavement, though it is illegal to drive on a pavement or cause an obstruction by blocking a pathway or drive.

Concerns were raised at the meeting that drivers in the town could be caught out by the new legislation, particularly on tight streets where parking is difficult.

Robert McNeill, member of the group, said: “I worry that people may be caught out by this. But also I feel it will be difficult to enforce as our traffic wardens only work until about 6pm. So what is there to stop someone parking on the pavement after 6pm, leaving the car overnight and then moving it in the morning to go to work? I’m just not sure how this will be fully effective.”

Councillor Colin McGinn, ward member for Tranent, Wallyford and Macmerry, said it remained to be seen how strictly enforced the legislation would be.

He said: “I think the big thing is seeing how rigid or soft they are with the fines.

“I think it is important that we let people know this is happening, to make sure they are aware and to ensure they avoid such fines.”

Fellow ward councillor Lee-Anne Menzies added: “Traffic wardens are only in place until the evening at the moment.

“But if lots of people are getting fined, more money will be coming in and this may in turn allow them to operate later. It is not impossible that we see wardens out later at night or earlier in the morning in the future.”

Mike Falconer, chair of the group, said that the community council would work to ensure it was spreading the word about the new rules ahead of their implementation.