ANGRY motorists in Selkirk are being told to phone the police about persistent problem parkers.

They are also advised to write to the chief executive of Scottish Borders Council with their concerns.

Members of Selkirk Community Council were this week told of gridlock during the initial phases of major roadworks ongoing in the town.

Diversions down The Loan and Back Row had led to chaotic scenes after many drivers ignored temporary no-parking zones.

Teacher Rob Duff told the meeting: “For three days there were ‘no parking’ signs up in the Back Row yet many cars were parked and it was mayhem.

“Cars are just parked wherever drivers felt like.”

Parking restrictions are also being activated on the High Street, Bleachfield Road and Raeburn as resurfacing works continue.

And police are urging anyone with concerns the temporary legislation is being ignored to phone 101.

Community officer Conal McEwan said: “There has already been disruption and it will continue for several more weeks. I’m out there – I will ticket any cars that ignore the no-parking zones.

“If anyone sees cars causing a problem because of where it’s parked they should phone it in on 101.”

Roadworks are planned throughout Selkirk until the end of the year.
Community councillor Tom Combe believes more enforcement is required.

He said: “I know of three cars that didn’t move an inch from the no-parking areas last week yet nothing was done.

“There needs to be enforcement if you are having no-parking areas. Hanging a sign on a lamppost isn’t going to stop people parking where they want.”

Selkirkshire councillor Gordon Edgar (Ind) has been pushing for decriminalisation of parking across the Borders since traffic wardens were pulled off the streets by Police Scotland.

And he is urging anyone with concerns to write to Tracey Logan, chief executive of Scottish Borders Council, to make her aware of the problems.

He said: “If anyone has a complaint about parking they should write to Tracey Logan at SBC and tell her.

“I’ve been trying for long enough to get something done. I don’t think the council believe the extent of the problems we face.”