Council responds to Buckingham business parking concerns

Buckinghamshire Council says parking restrictions near a Buckingham Florist remain legally enforceable despite concerns from businesses and residents over recent ticketing activity.

Howes the Florist previously told Bucks Radio that recent enforcement activity had prevented vehicles from using the slope beside the shop, while nearby spaces commonly used by customers were now being ticketed. The business estimated that between 15 and 25 parking spaces could be affected, warning of a potential impact on trade.

The florist, which has operated in the town for around 70 years, said restrictions were being enforced under rules dating back to 2021, despite what it described as a lack of clear signage or communication about the changes.

In response, Buckinghamshire Council said the locations are already covered by an existing Traffic Regulation Order and marked with double yellow lines, meaning they remain legally enforceable.

The council acknowledged that parking has historically taken place in the area, but said this “does not override the legal restrictions”.

A spokesperson said: “We appreciate the concerns raised by residents, businesses and local representatives, and recognise the importance of parking provision to support both the local community and businesses operating in the area.”

The authority added that officers have met with local councillors to discuss the issues raised and said discussions are continuing to understand the concerns of residents and businesses.

The council also confirmed that from 1 June, on-street parking enforcement will be carried out by an authorised contractor on behalf of the authority, but stressed that no new parking charges are being introduced.

It said enforcement would continue in line with existing regulations and council policies.

The spokesperson added: “We appreciate the impact on residents and businesses and are working with members to identify a balanced long-term solution.”

However, the council warned that parking on double yellow lines remains subject to enforcement under the current legal position.

Full statement from Buckinghamshire Council Parking Services

“We appreciate the concerns raised by residents, businesses and local representatives, and recognise the importance of parking provision to support both the local community and businesses operating in the area.

“These locations are subject to an existing Traffic Regulation Order and are marked with double yellow lines; as such, they remain legally enforceable and vehicles parked in contravention may be issued with Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs). While parking has historically taken place in these areas, this does not override the legal restrictions.

“We recognise that this change in visible enforcement has caused concern. However, where restrictions exist, the Council has a duty to enforce them.

“Buckinghamshire Council officers have met with local members to discuss the proposals and issues raised. They are continuing to work collaboratively to ensure all concerns are fully understood and addressed, with further progress subject to ongoing discussion with members. At this stage, no formal changes have been approved or implemented.

“From 1 June, on-street enforcement will be undertaken by an authorised contractor on behalf of Buckinghamshire Council. This change relates to how enforcement services are delivered and does not introduce any new parking charges in this area. All enforcement will continue to be carried out in line with existing regulations and Council policies.

“We appreciate the impact on residents and businesses and are working with members to identify a balanced long-term solution. In the meantime, parking on double yellow lines remains subject to enforcement in line with the current legal position.”